Academic teams from Longmeadow High School and Westfield High School will contend for the championship this weekend on “As Schools Match Wits,” airing on WGBY public television, Channel 57, at 7 p.m. Saturday, May 28. The two schools have reached the finals, and the victors will add their school’s name to coveted Collamore Cup.
“As Schools Match Wits” pits teams of western New England high schoolers against each other in a fun, but competitive game of academic performance. The competition is open to both public and private high schools.
The contest was created by Leonard J. Collamore in 1961 to showcase local students in an engaging format. Today, it is co-produced by New England Public Media and Westfield State University and hosted by award-winning local TV journalist Beth Ward. It is one of the longest-running shows of its kind in the nation.
“As Schools Match Wits” is more than a forum for the sharp wits of area high school students. It also provides hands-on learning opportunities for college undergraduates. The show is produced using Westfield State University facilities, and university students serve as the production crew. NEPM supplies professional production, broadcast, marketing, and technical support.
“As we wind down the 61st season of ‘ASMW,’ I remain in perpetual awe of what these high school students know and how dedicated and competitive they are,” said Tony Dunne, executive producer of “As Schools Match Wits” for NEPM. “Every year a new crop of the best and brightest in the region come through the studio doors, and it’s so inspiring to see the same burning passion for knowledge in each group of students who participate This year was no different, and it all culminates in a very exciting, down-to-the-wire championship match that you won’t want to miss!”
In addition to the Saturday broadcast, episodes of “As Schools Match Wits” are available for online streaming shortly after their airdate at video.nepm.org/show/as-schools-match-wits. Westfield’s regular-season matchup with Mount Greylock Regional High School, on April 16, and its May 21 semifinal win over Hall High School can also be seen at that site.
Westfield, Longmeadow compete for ‘As Schools Match Wits’ title - masslive.com