(Gary, IND) – The Gary Community School Corporation’s West Side Leadership Academy (WSLA) gets to retain the traveling trophy after their historic back-to-back championship win at the 2nd Annual Steel City Black Knowledge Bowl.
Held this past weekend at IU Northwest, WSLA emerged victorious after competing against four other high schools, cementing their legacy as the reigning champions for the Black Knowledge Bowl. Facing a powerful rematch with 21st Century Charter School in the final round, West Side triumphed with a commanding score of 285-160, underscoring their academic excellence and teamwork.
The Steel City Black Knowledge Bowl, hosted by the Indiana University Northwest Office of Diversity, Equity, and Multicultural Affairs (ODEMA), is a one-of-a-kind academic event where local high school teams answer over 500 questions covering topics on African American history from culture, politics, health, science, and more. Participating schools this year included West Side Leadership Academy, 21st Century Charter School, Gary Lighthouse College Prep Campus (3rd place), Thea Bowman Leadership Academy (4th place), and Merrillville High School (5th place).
“This is an amazing competition that helps highlight the unmatched dedication and knowledge these students have developed through months of preparation. It’s not only a celebration of intellect, but of community pride,” said Antoine Hawkins, Group Scholars Coordinator at IU Northwest.
“This is a vital learning experience where students can connect with and celebrate the contributions of Black leaders, scientists, inventors, and creators in a way that empowers and inspires them,” said Dr. Dorothy Frink, Interim Vice Chancellor for Student Affairs and Enrollment Management at IU Northwest. “We are honored to partner with our community to sponsor an event of this magnitude and cultural relevance.”
West Side principal Carl Scott was elated over the students’ performance and the legacy of victory being established.
“West Side’s achievement reflects the dedication of students, teachers, families, and the Gary community alike,” said Scott. “We look forward to our students participating in even more academic competitions and thank IU Northwest for this opportunity.”
At the competition’s start, the team presented last year’s traveling trophy back to IU Northwest, only to reclaim it by day’s end — an incredible moment for everyone involved.
The Gary Community School Corporation recognizes the Steel City Black Knowledge Bowl as a vital celebration of Black excellence, shining a spotlight on the incredible talent of young scholars in Northwest Indiana.
Winning team and event organizers pose for a victory shot (Photo courtesy of West Side Leadership Academy)Dr. Dorothy Frink addresses the crowd (Photo courtesy of West Side Leadership Academy)Final score or the final round of competition (Photo courtesy of West Side Leadership Academy)
