Silsbee Students Shine at UIL 4A District 18 Academic Contest

March  29, 2025 - Silsbee High School students showcased their academic talent at the UIL 4A District 18 Academic Contest held at Lumberton High School on Saturday, March 29. Competing in 14 different events, 17 students put their knowledge and skills to the test, earning multiple top finishes and securing spots at the UIL Academic Regional Tournament at Stephen F. Austin State University in Nacogdoches on April 26.

Several students earned regional qualifications with standout performances in their respective categories:

• Matthew Ard – 2nd place, Number Sense (Regional Qualifier)
• Briana Glenn – 2nd place, Spelling & Vocabulary (Regional Qualifier)
• Alexis McWhorter – 1st place, Persuasive Speaking (Regional Qualifier); 2nd place, Ready Writing (Regional Qualifier)
• Kate Vickery – 3rd place, Headline Writing (Regional Qualifier)

Other notable finishes included:

• Melanie Alanis – 4th place, Editorial Writing; 5th place, Spelling & Vocabulary; 5th place, Headline Writing
• Brylie Arredondo – 6th place, Poetry Interpretation
• Aiyanna Grant – 6th place, Persuasive Speaking
• Kylie Hooks – 6th place, Spelling & Vocabulary
• Layla Maghe – 4th place, Social Studies
• Miguel Morrison – 6th place, Ready Writing; 6th place, Literary Criticism

In addition to individual accomplishments, Silsbee’s teams performed exceptionally well:

• Spelling & Vocabulary Team – 2nd overall (Melanie Alanis, Amanda Ard, Brylie Arredondo, Briana Glenn, Ja'Niece Fontenot, Kylie Hooks)
• Social Studies Team – 2nd overall (Ja'Niece Fontenot, Layla Maghe, John Taylor)

Silsbee ISD is incredibly proud of these students for their hard work and dedication. Best of luck to those advancing to Regionals as they continue to represent Tiger Nation!