.png)
Murphy High School edged Alma Bryant and defending state champion Baker to win the Hi-Q state final and advance to national competition. This was the first time in recent memory that all three schools making the state final of the annual academic competition were MCPSS schools, as Murphy, Bryant and Baker edged out local public and private schools to qualify for the final match. Murphy scored 38 points in the final to Bryant's 38 and Baker's 28.
Murphy team members include seniors Marc Leyk, Hang Touch, Lillian Marzullo, Molly Guarino, Rowan Tillman, Nakeria Woods and Amelia Velaski, junior Abby Weekly, sophomores Collin Bendolph, Cecelia Camp, Quinlan DeAnda and Korwin Harris, and freshman Piper Velaski.
"I am very fortunate to have so many students who possess a gift for academics, leadership, and collaboration," said Murphy's coach and sponsor, Lauren Boshell. "Many of the students on the team are part of Murphy’s Signature Academy (Murphy University Center) and have taken courses together for several years. Preparing for the Hi-Q season this year has included close and meaningful review of study materials alongside collaborative discussions that promote team-building. Of these two things, I think that the latter has made all the difference for the students. The team members held one another accountable in a very respectful manner and would work together to step in and help their fellow teammates with mastery of the material.
"Additionally, as a team, the students were quite reflective. After each match, we took time as a team to discuss the match and reflect on different components. Having a welcoming environment for all team members allowed for continued progress and growth throughout the season."
Murphy now qualifies to compete in the national event later this Spring.