Longfellow has a rich history of excelling. Awards line display cases, proudly presenting the hard work of brilliant students.
The biggest trophy is a green and gold tower, stretching the whole height of the display case. It was received two years ago for winning Quizbowl’s Nationals, and it serves as a reminder of the impact of Quizbowl on the Longfellow community.
“It’s part of Longfellow tradition,” explained Karin L., an eighth grader who has played Quizbowl for three years, beginning in 6th grade at Haycock Elementary School. “When Mr. Huang came, there really wasn’t a Quizbowl team at Longfellow or anywhere in Northern Virginia, but he built it up. Longfellow won Nationals a few years ago, and we did really well last year, so I think that it’s just part of Longfellow.”
Math teacher Eugene Huang began the program in 2002, paving the way for generations of Quizbowlers. Unfortunately, Huang decided to leave Longfellow in 2023, and after-school sponsors were hard to come by; especially after last year’s after-school specialist Hector Martinez also left Longfellow. The job remained open as the year began, complicating the search for a sponsor.
Longfellow Quizbowl needed to find a sponsor fast. Tournaments were rapidly approaching, and the program still had no leader.
“I was honestly surprised Quizbowl was even happening this year,” Karin said.
Students were scrambling to find anyone who would respond. Eighth grader Hudson H. emailed all of the teachers in the yearbook in the chaos, and Principal Jim Patrick and parent Mona Seghal were also urging people to consider sponsoring the club.
Eventually, things came together. Lavina Gangwani Colaco stepped into the After School Coordinator position, teachers Laura Flyte and Tara Weidus responded to the emails, and Ms. Flyte officially became the new leader of Quiz Bowl.
However, Quizbowl needed more than a sponsor. They needed an educator, a guide; someone familiar with the game.
They needed Elle Lee.
A recent TJHSST grad, Lee had played Quizbowl for many years and specialized in fine arts and literature. Lee held the key to unlocking Longfellow’s potential.
“They’ve definitely made a huge impact on how we play as a team. They’re committed, and we need that,” Karin said of Lee.
Evidently, Quizbowlers are dedicated to the game. Longfellow’s love of Quizbowl transforms even the weakest teams into powerhouses.
“I really like to learn and compete, and Quizbowl is really great at tying those two things together,” explained Karin, a wistful smile on her face.
Quizbowl has had four tournaments so far, but there are many more to come. In May, the teams go to Chicago for Nationals; a great experience for anyone. It inspires team bonding and there are many opportunities to learn and have fun on the trip.
“[Quizbowl] encourages students to learn about topics that are not covered in their core classes, like world history and current events. [They] can be useful but are just not taught in school.” Karin finished.
The next Monday or Thursday you stay after school, you may want to head down to room 132 and find your new passion.
