It’s official: Hefner Middle School students know more than any middle school students in the state. What’s more, they’re among the tops in the world.

The distinction comes as a result of the hard work of the 13 students who make up Hefner’s Knowledge Master team. In spring Knowledge Master competition on Monday, April 21, the Hefner team scored 1,363 of 2,000 possible points to place first in state and in the top 25 percent internationally. Results of the competition were announced in late April.

Seven hundred fifty-three schools from around the world took part in Knowledge Master competition in April. Students at each participating school gathered around a computer to compete as a team, answering 200 challenging questions in the event and earning points for the speed and accuracy of their answers.

Questions came in 15 categories, including American history, world history, economics, current events, math, literature, biology, earth science, health and psychology, fine arts and government.

This year’s Knowledge Master team members at Hefner are:
• Lucas Adams
• Jeremy Allen
• Josh Burgess
• Sean Burton
• Spencer Cornelius
• Kedrin Daley
• Tyler Jakeway
• Chris Jourden
• Cierra Keith
• Courtney King
• Toni Massey
• Nathan Miles
• Jordan Tanner

Team members say one of the best parts of Hefner’s participation in Knowledge Master was the opportunity for students to join together on a team.

“The Knowledge Master environment brought a sense of unity among the players, like a family,” says team member Josh Burgess.

"Everyone on the team had their own areas of strength, which benefited the group as a whole,” adds team member Sean Burton.

Ann Chesney, a Hefner teacher who along with fellow teacher Barbara Fowler coaches the team, says it’s been a memorable year.

"It’s clear that their hard work and dedication paid off. These students are very competitive and have a winning attitude. I am constantly impressed with the intelligence and knowledge these students exhibit on a daily basis. It’s an honor to work with such a wonderful group. I will miss them next year!" says Ann Chesney, a Hefner teacher who is one of two coaches for the team.