Pictured (l-r): Paige Kelley, Lennon Hodge, Bear Fuller, Connor Westfall, and Coach Dimsdale.

The West Virginia Department of Education (WVDE) and Marshall University issued congratulations to Huntington High School and Hurricane High School for placing first and second in the 2026 Academic Showdown Region 2 competition held at Marshall on Saturday, February 14. Both schools secured a spot in Academic Showdown finale for statewide honors in Charleston on May 1.

Through fast-paced, head-to-head style matchups, the Showdown provides students the opportunity to showcase a mastery of knowledge across content areas, including mathematics, science, history, sports, pop culture and more.

The Region 2 Showdown hosted teams from the following schools: Buffalo High School, Huntington High School, Hurricane High School, Mingo Central High School, Poca High School, Spring Valley High School, Tug Valley High School, Wayne High School, Winfield High School.

“The vigor and tenacity our students bring to the Academic Showdown are inspiring. I’m excited that our students have the opportunity once again to showcase their talents, depth of knowledge and competitiveness,” said State Superintendent of Schools Michele L. Blatt. “Each year, this competition highlights the impact public education has on students and serves as a reminder of the quality of learning happening every day in classrooms statewide.”

The next regional competition is scheduled for Thursday, Feb. 19, at Fairmont State University.

The Showdown is a partnership between the WVDE, the West Virginia Higher Education Policy Commission, the West Virginia Culture Center and West Virginia Public Broadcasting. This year’s program features newcomers and returning teams representing 53 schools across 31 counties.