The Rhode Island Academic Decathlon, co-founded by John Howell in 1983, is an annual competition that challenges high school students from across the state in various subjects, including science, art, math, speech, interview, and essay writing. The 41st annual event took place on March 3, 2024, at Bryant University, with fifteen schools participating. For the first time, North Kingstown High School won first place, with team members Lilian Borkman, Alice Dunning, Thea Carr, Sydney Howell, Lucas Meier, Allana Trombley, Artur Porto, and Camdin Smith, led by coach Susan Erikson. The team also excelled in the Super Quiz and had individual gold medalists, with Lucas Meier winning in Science and Artur Porto in Economics. They were selected to represent Rhode Island in the United States Academic Decathlon.
The resolution acknowledges the achievements of the North Kingstown High School team and their coach, Susan Erikson, for their victory in the 2024 Rhode Island Academic Decathlon. It celebrates the students' accomplishments and the positive representation they provide for youth achievement. The House of Representatives of the State of Rhode Island extends congratulations to the team and best wishes for their future endeavors. Additionally, the Secretary of State is directed to transmit a certified copy of the resolution to the team's coach, Ms. Susan Erikson.