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After months of rigorous preparation, the Arcadia High School (AHS) Constitution Team (Gov Team) competed in the California State Finals of the We The People Competition, taking home 2nd place. The event, which tests students’ knowledge of constitutional principles, government structures, and current events, took place in Sacramento on the weekend of Feb. 1. Arcadia’s team faced off against six other highly skilled teams from across the state, demonstrating their expertise in six different units, each one covering a different facet of the American Constitution.
The competition was divided into two days. On Feb. 1, all teams participated in the preliminary round, where they presented prepared statements and answered complex follow-up questions from a panel of judges, including legal scholars, educators, and government officials. Of the seven teams, only the top four teams advanced to the final round on Feb. 2, where Arvin High School, Independence High School, and Tennyson High School were unable to advance. Arcadia ultimately beat out Amador Valley and Centennial High who placed 3rd and 4th respectively, taking 2nd place overall to Foothills High School.
AHS’ team, consisting of 27 seniors, secured their highest placement in eight years.
“Placing 2nd place this year at State definitely exceeded our expectations. In past years, it was difficult for us to make it to even the second day, and coming out as a top team in California was immensely rewarding,” said senior Ariel Lew from Unit Four.
Their achievement reflects not only their intensive research and preparation, but also their continued efforts in advancing their knowledge since the beginning of the school year.
“This program is very unique in that students can only compete for one year, therefore we start from scratch every single year. This year’s team really embraced the bonding component and worked with all members of the team and not just their individual unit,” said Ms. Megan Leahy, the teacher and coach for Gov Team.
In addition to the team’s 2nd place finish, several individuals from AHS received multiple awards for their contributions. Notably, Unit 1 earned the Best Unit Award, a recognition given to the top-performing group in their respective category.
Furthermore, Lew received the highly esteemed Shaw Service Award, an honor bestowed upon only one student per high school. This award recognizes students who exemplify outstanding leadership, dedication, and commitment to civic education.
Reflecting on this recognition, Lew said, “I believe I was recognized for my transformation from a student who was completely unfamiliar with the U.S. government into an active citizen analyzing constitutional amendments. Furthermore, I believe my deep love and admiration for my teammates was also recognized through this award.”
With the Gov Team’s recent announcement that they did make it to nationals through a wild card given to California, both students and teachers alike are excited for their competition in April.
“Getting to go to nationals is honestly a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity, and I wouldn’t miss this for anything,” said senior Nathan Chang from Unit Four.
With their advancement to nationals, AHS’ Constitution Team’s greatest strength lies in the diverse perspectives each member brings. Every Gov Team member contributed their unique experiences, coming together to deliver their best performance during the state competition, and hopefully will continue to do so at the national competition.

Photo Courtesy of JENNY LIAO