Grit, Glory, and Great Minds

At Clemons, competition season isn’t just about the field or the court — it’s also about the classroom. Our scholars are stepping into this year’s UIL Academic Competitions ready to think critically, problem-solve, and showcase their strengths.

From early morning practices to lunchtime study sessions, our students put in the work. Piper Welch, a 6th grade student in both Spelling and Modern Oratory (Debate) said, “It's hard because you have find information. But it’s also fun because you get to give your own opinion on it.”

Our coaches watch them grow more confident each week — mastering quick-fire facts in Number Sense, sharpening arguments for Impromptu Speaking, polishing prose for Ready Writing, and diving deep into charts, maps, and data for Social Studies.

"Academic UIL isn't just an event-it's a vital part of who we are as a school," said UIL coach and campus coordinator Valerie Garcia. "Allowing students to compete academically not only challenges them to think beyond the classroom, but puts them on a path that can open doors that may provide various opportunities in the future, such as scholarships and even career choices."

Competition Day is Saturday, February 21st. Students are already displaying the kind of grit and character that makes our campus proud. We can’t wait to see what they will achieve this year!