December 9, 2024 (Chadds Ford, PA) The start of December ushers in a beloved Delco tradition like no other—the kickoff of the oldest continuous academic quiz competition in the United States—Delco Hi-Q, now celebrating its remarkable 77th season!
Franklin Mint Federal Credit Union and FMFCU Foundation partner with the Delaware County Intermediate Unit and the 21 participating schools for this one-of-a-kind Delaware County tradition. Delco Hi-Q not only celebrates academic excellence but also inspires the next generation of thinkers, problem-solvers, and leaders.
The much-anticipated Delco Hi-Q Season began on December 4, 2024 at Strath Haven High School. The first contest delivered an exciting and tense showdown between Strath Haven, Penncrest, and Radnor High Schools. The event, marked by close competition and fierce intellect, saw the three teams battling it out in a nail-biting match that kept the audience on the edge of their seats. At the halfway point, the scores were incredibly tight, with all three teams separated by just three points. Penncrest was in the lead, but with all teams answering questions correctly and maintaining strong momentum, there were limited opportunities for bonus points, intensifying the competition further.
The game shifted in the second half, however, when Strath Haven, the home team, seized the opportunity – capturing the critical Toss-Up question on Shakespeare, propelling them into the lead and energizing their team for the final stretch. In a thrilling finish, Strath Haven’s late-game surge helped them claim victory in a closely contested match. Final Scores – Strath Haven: 57; Penncrest: 46; Radnor: 48.
Academy Park High School hosted Chester STEM and the Academy of Notre Dame in the second Delco Hi-Q Contest of the week. In the first half, Notre Dame dominated the field, building a strong lead of 12 points. Meanwhile, Academy Park and Chester STEM stayed close, with only a 2-point difference separating the two teams. Chester STEM, while initially slow to get points on the board, found their rhythm late in the first half, making a push for the lead.
However, Notre Dame maintained their advantage, and in the second half, they extended their lead even further after correctly answering the Toss-Up question on Shakespeare. Despite their efforts, Academy Park and Chester STEM found it tough to close the gap. Academy Park showed remarkable improvement in the second half, more than tripling their score from the first half and demonstrating a strong comeback. Final Scores- Academy Park: 17; Chester STEM: 12; Notre Dame: 34.
Hi-Q competitions continue this week with four contests at Penn Wood and Bonner Prendie High School.
Delco Hi-Q is a partnership between Delaware County Intermediate Unit (DCIU) and Franklin Mint Federal Credit Union Foundation. FMFCU Vice President Rick Durante serves as Director and Quizmaster, FMFCU Corporate Social Responsibility Program Manager Danielle Griffin is Hi-Q Assistant Director, and DCIU’s Dave Bramble is the production engineer. In addition to support from the 21 participating schools, Franklin Mint Federal Credit Union and the Wilbur C. and Betty Lea Henderson Foundation are the primary corporate sponsors. Additional support comes from longtime sponsor Kimberly-Clark Chester Operations and the Delaware County Daily Times.
