Middle School Students Achieve 4th Place at Knowledge Bowl 2026

The team represented Nations in the academic competition in Rio de Janeiro, highlighting teamwork and critical thinking.

From February 25 to 27, six Middle School students represented Nations at the Middle School Knowledge Bowl 2026, hosted by the American School of Rio de Janeiro (EARJ). Over two days of competition, the team faced six other schools from the American Association of Schools in Brazil (AASB) and secured fourth place, our school’s highest ranking so far in its second participation in the event.

The competition brings together teams in an academic trivia format, featuring questions across a wide range of subjects, including computational mathematics, literature, science, pop culture, history, geography, and mythology. In each round, teams answer 25 questions, and scores determine their position in the overall rankings.

For the second time, Nations sent a Middle School team to the Knowledge Bowl. This year’s team was composed of Razqa Ashwam (Grade 7), Francisco Rosa (Grade 7), Max Bindseil (Grade 7), Caetano Sant’anna (Grade 7), Marcus Schroder (Grade 8), and Theo Scartezini (Grade 8). Throughout the tournament, the group earned three victories, finishing in fourth place overall and improving upon the school’s previous performance.

In addition to the academic challenges, students participated in social activities and explored the city of Rio de Janeiro, strengthening bonds and team spirit. During the trip, the group visited AquaRio, the largest marine aquarium in South America, and the Museu do Pontal, dedicated to Brazilian folk art.

For team captain Francisco Rosa, the experience was meaningful both academically and personally.

“The trip was very interesting and fun. We faced many challenges competing against the other teams, but it was rewarding in the end. My favorite moment was when we achieved our first victory against EABH — it really stood out to me, and I was very happy. What I learned the most from this trip was the importance of teamwork. It’s very different when you’re part of a team, because at school we often work individually. In competitions like this, we have to learn how to work together; otherwise, the team doesn’t function. I definitely learned what teamwork truly means."

More than an academic competition, the Knowledge Bowl aims to develop essential skills such as critical thinking, logical reasoning, and mental agility. At the same time, it fosters a welcoming environment that encourages autonomy, collaboration, and meaningful connections among students, blending learning with enjoyment.