Hard work in the classroom paid off - literally - for students competing at the 52nd annual Inter-High Day Wednesday at North Platte Community College.
More than 650 students from 25 area high schools entered the scholastic contest, which tested knowledge and skill in everything from accounting, athletic training and chemistry to automotive, welding and electrical technology.
Winners in each academic category received a medal and a $500 scholarship to the college. Additionally, those placing first through third earned certificates for up to three credit hours of summer tuition.
Winners in the applied technology categories also received scholarships and tuition vouchers, but instead of medals, took home equipment that applied to their particular test areas.
Schools earned points based on how many winners they had. The top three point earning schools in each division received a plaque and a $500 scholarship to award to a student of the school's choice. Schools were also able to qualify for a scholarship by having any of their students place in the top three.
Results are as follows:
Applied Technology:
First - Ruben Montoya, North Platte High
Second - Cactus Miller, Cody-Kilgore
Third - Tracy Evans, Cambridge