The PHS LifeSmarts Team is gearing up to represent Oklahoma at the National LifeSmarts Competition in San Diego, California, from April 18-21. This talented group of students has already proven themselves as state champions ready to take on the best teams from across the country.
Led by Junior Captain Ryleigh Hill, the team includes Junior Carson Pendley, Junior Nicholas Rowland, Senior Jasmine Raikos, and Senior Tyler Earl. Coached by Sharon Rash and Bea Roberson, both seasoned coaches with 15 years and 6 years of national coaching experience respectively, the team is in good hands.
Team members are enthusiastic about the competition and the life skills they have learned from being members of the LifeSmarts team. They encourage other students to join the team to learn important information while having fun.
"My favorite part of LifeSmarts is the buzzer practices," said Jasmine Raikos, a senior and second-year member. She emphasizes the importance of the financial literacy portion, noting, "I have learned a lot of important life knowledge that will definitely help me in the long run." Raikos believes these skills will greatly benefit her future. Her favorite memory is the team bonding at the hotel after last year's nationals. For this year, her goal is clear: "My goal for the team is to place top 10 at nationals in San Diego and recruit some good members for next year."
"My favorite part of LifeSmarts is spending time with my team," shares Carson Pendley, a junior and second-year member. He has learned essential life skills, especially in managing his own income responsibly, which he believes will positively impact his future. Pendley's favorite memory is winning their first competition at nationals last year. His goal for the team this year is to make it into the top twenty at nationals.
Ryleigh Hill, also a junior and second-year member, leads the team. "My favorite part of Lifesmarts is the new opportunity that it brings. I have been able to expand my learning and have had incredible journeys!" Hill emphasizes the importance of teamwork and how LifeSmarts teaches real-world knowledge that can benefit not only her personal life but also the lives of others. A favorite memory is winning their first buzzer match at nationals. This year, Hill aims to make it to at least the sweet sixteen and strive for the top ten.
Tyler Earl, a senior and second-year member, finds excitement in the buzzer challenges. “LifeSmarts has taught me a lot about my personal finances that will help in my life,” Tyler said. Earl's favorite memory is the escape rooms they did as a team at nationals last year. His shares the team goal of being in the top 10 at nationals.
Nicholas Rowland, a junior and first-year member, enjoys the meetings where they have fun and learn. “In Lifesmarts I've learned information over a variety of subjects that all apply to my future in one way or another from government rules to financial advice,” Rowland remarked. He believes the program has made him more prepared to be independent. A favorite memory of Rowland’s is when they held a daddy-daughter dance and had fun in their community. Nicholas's team goal this year is to make it farther at nationals than any Pryor team has before.
As the team looks forward to representing Pryor High School at nationals, their passion, dedication, and shared experiences continue to strengthen their bond and drive for success.
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