Woodland Heights Elementary Wins State Title

For a few tense minutes, it looked like the state crown would go to a team of fourth-graders from Mecklenburg County. But a couple of correct responses in the late stages pulled Woodland Heights Elementary even with Victory Christian School, sending the Fire and Life Safety Bowl title into a three-question tie-breaker.

Each team answered one question correctly, bringing the match down to the final question.

Woodland Heights buzzed in on the final question and got it right to bring the state Fire and Life Safety Quiz Bowl trophy home to Mooresville to be placed beside the county trophy the team won in March.

This is the second state quiz bowl and involved teams from Iredell, Mecklenburg, Cabarrus and Catawba counties. It was held Monday night at the Continuing Education Building of Mitchell Community College.

The safety quiz bowl features fourth- and fifth-graders, and the questions pertained to lessons they've learned in the fire and life safety education program.

They answered questions about the types of fire extinguishers, where to keep a first-aid kit and bicycle and skateboarding safety.

Each team earned a trip to the state bowl by finishing in the top three of the local bowls.

Woodland Heights was one of three Iredell County teams to participate, and two were in the top three when the match was over.

American Renaissance School placed third. Scotts Elementary School, the second-place finisher in the state bowl last year, didn't make it to the finals.

American Renaissance squared off against Lake Wylie Elementary from Mecklenburg County in the third-place round.

Like the team from Woodland Heights, American Renaissance fell behind briefly, but rallied to defeat Lake Wylie 16-14.

The championship round was neck-and-neck most of the way through the team and individual questions. But during the toss-up round, Victory Christian eased ahead, 16-14, and seemed headed for victory.

Then the Woodland Heights team came from behind, answering three questions correctly to end the match in a 17-17 tie.

The two teams tied again at 18 before Woodland Heights buzzed in first on the final question.

Team members Ellie Dainko, Brina Melton, Heath Thompson, Eric Warren and Chase McGlamery celebrated their victory but offered congratulations to the team from Victory Christian.

Woodland Heights coach Kevin Clark and coach April Davis breathed a sigh of relief when the match was finally over.

"That was an exciting match," he said.

Heath Thompson, who was thrilled in March with the county victory, said this was better.

"This is more exciting than the first time," he said.

Iredell County Manager Joel Mashburn said not only were the children showing off their smarts, they are demonstrating knowledge that will keep them safe.

"What you're learning is important," he said.

Statesville Fire Chief David Bullins said he was impressed with the youngsters knowledge at the local bowl, and more so after Monday's competition.

"You kids are just outstanding," he said.

A veteran firefighter, Bullins said he wasn't sure how well he'd do in the same competition.

"I'd be hesitant to put myself up against any of you. You kids know this stuff," he said.

Statesville Record & Landmark