February was a month of academic achievement at Suffield Middle School, as students in both 6th and 8th grades participated in the annual Scholastic Challenge. This nationwide academic contest tests students’ knowledge and critical thinking across a wide range of subjects, including mathematics, science, language, history and geography.
Sophie (center with the trophy) is joined by SMS French teacher Devlyn Bent, Principal Ken Smith and her parents and brother in celebration of her State Champion win.
The Scholastic Challenge is designed to engage students by blending general knowledge with logic and problem-solving skills. Participants are given 60 minutes to complete 100 multiple-choice questions. Scores of 60% or higher are considered exceptional, and students scoring at or above the national average receive a Certificate of Merit. Additionally, the top-scoring student from each grade at the school is awarded a medal. Those achieving the highest score in the state are named State Champion and receive a trophy instead.
This year’s sixth grade national average was 51%. Out of the 25 sixth grade students that participated in the Challenge, 10 received the national average score or higher. The national average score for 8th grade was 50%. Six out of eight eighth graders scored at or above the eighth-grade national average. Special recognition to Finn Kappen who scored the highest (68%) and earned himself the title of 8th Grade School Champion.
This year, Suffield Middle School is proud to announce that Sophie Bernier has been named the Connecticut State Champion for 6th Grade, earning a remarkable score of 81%. Her achievement not only earned her top honors at the school but also statewide recognition.
A special thank you goes to the Suffield Middle School PTAC, who have generously covered the cost of student participation in the Scholastic Challenge each year. Without their continued support, this opportunity for academic enrichment and recognition would not be possible.
Congratulations to Sophie and to all the students who took on the challenge with enthusiasm and determination. Their efforts reflect a strong commitment to academic excellence and a love for learning.