HARRISBURG, PA — B. Reed Henderson High School of West Chester won the 2026 Pennsylvania State Academic Competition on Friday, May 1, at the Pennsylvania State Capitol, defeating 19 other high school teams from across the state.
The annual competition, now in its 35th year, was hosted by State Rep. John A. Lawrence and supported by the Pennsylvania State Education Association, with coordination by the Chester County Intermediate Unit.
Henderson secured first place with 110 points in the championship match. Wallenpaupack Area High School finished second with 55 points, while Whitehall High School placed third with 50 points.
Henderson received a $2,000 scholarship award. Wallenpaupack and Whitehall each received $500 scholarships for their finishes.
The daylong event brought together 20 academic teams for a quiz-bowl style competition focused on subjects including science, history, literature, mathematics, and current events.
“For the entire team, it’s been a long journey up to this point,” Henderson team captain Sidharth Muthiyattu Sumesh said. “We’ve never made it to the state competition before. This is our first time here. To win it on our first time here is really an accomplishment; it’s very special.”
Muthiyattu Sumesh credited the team’s chemistry and collaborative approach for the victory.
“We fill the gaps in each other’s knowledge, and I think that’s really our biggest strength,” he said. “We also fist bump after every question, no matter if we get it right or wrong.”
Henderson coach Brian Johnson said the group’s long-standing relationships contributed to the team’s success.
“The team has had great camaraderie and friendship for the last four years,” Johnson said. “You can really see how much they support one another and care for each other. They want to see each other do well.”
Jay Della Ragione, special events coordinator for the Chester County Intermediate Unit, said the event emphasizes both academic achievement and teamwork.
“They come prepared, compete hard, and treat one another with real sportsmanship throughout the day,” Della Ragione said. “Beyond the scores, this event is about challenging students to think critically, learn from one another, and grow — not only as competitors, but also as teammates and scholars.”
The Pennsylvania State Academic Competition is designed to promote academic achievement and encourage teamwork and critical thinking among high school students statewide.
Additional information about the competition is available at CCIU State Academic Competition
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