The Ramapo Academic Decathlon has seen an incredible 2025-2026 season. Led by captains Brian Princiotta, Mia Tarta, Robbie Tanis, and Peter Kavallieratos, the team ranked 3rd in the region, 5th in the state, and qualified for the ACADEC state competition where they achieved 4th in the Super Quiz. They also received individual awards; at the varsity level, Claire James won gold in music, silver in social science as well as language and literature, and bronze in art. Anna Koroskenyi won silver for the interview and an honorable mention for music, and Robbie Tanis received an honorable mention for music and speech; at the honors level, Mia Tarta won bronze for the interview.
The students of ACADEC have been working tirelessly all year. Captain Brian Princiotta commented, “Cooperation and communication was most integral to our team’s success. Whether it be teaching each other test material, having group studying sessions or more, the goals we set felt much more achievable together.” This year’s topic was the Roaring 20s, which they learned about and studied during lunch, after-school meetings, and in-school field trips.
The lengthy competition day began at 9:00 am with a 50 minute essay. Students then took social science, math, and economics tests. After a lunch break, they continued testing in science, art, language and literature, and music. In addition, students participated in an interview and a speech. The day is concluded with the Super Quiz, which is a team trivia-like event. “During SuperQuiz you’d think you were at a sporting event with all of the teams from each school rooting on their respective teammates,” ACADEC advisor and coach Ms. Vitale expressed. “This opportunity to cheer on and celebrate students in an academic forum, much to how we might otherwise celebrate student athletes, is my favorite part of the event.”
The decathletes have much to celebrate. All of the members, new and returning, worked diligently throughout the season. Undoubtedly, they will work just as hard to see similar success next year, studying the new theme of Journeys of Transformation: An Exploration of Travel and Transportation. For any students interested in joining the Academic Decathlon, reach out to advisors Ms. Noah ([email protected]) and Ms. Vitale ([email protected]), join the Schoology page at RKHWD-4HMZH, and keep a look out for the next interest-meeting, post AP exams!
