The second annual Democracy Bowl took place on Thursday, April 3, 2026, at the University of Pittsburgh at Johnstown. The event featured a competition where schools fielded three-person teams to answer questions about civics, government, and history.
Twelve teams from seven school districts participated in the high school level competition. Indiana Area Senior High School achieved remarkable success, securing both the championship and runner-up awards. Members of the championship team were Max Julin, Zeke Thomas, and Jonas Vick.The championship team received a $500 award. Members of the runner-up team were Rocco Cosentino, Alonzo Farrington, and Max Schaffrath. The runner-up team received a $250 award. Indiana's other team also performed well, with the team consisting of Tim Birch, Tyler Hunter, and Jack Lehman.The Indiana Area Senior High School sponsor was Michael Bertig.
At the junior high level, thirteen teams from five school districts competed, including three teams from the Indiana Area Junior High School. One of those IJHS teams won the championship and $500 award. Members of that team were Harlan Vick, Kaylee Higgins, and Logan Banfield. The two other teams also represented IJHS well in competition. Those teams consisted of Frankie Branscum, Libby Sarneso, and Sienna Oaks and Otto Stewart, Ethan Baron, and Cash Jackson. The Indiana Area Junior High School sponsor was Kate Matko.
Congratulations to all participants. The true prize is having a strong understanding of civics and government, which is essential for becoming good citizens.