When the average American hears the phrase “quick recall,” many may not be familiar with the term —  but most all of us certainly know and love how it works because it’s been entertaining us for decades. Consider Jeopardy, for instance, the game of quick fingers. Being the first to buzz in after hearing a question is the key to gaining points toward victory.

Once known in school circles as the “academic team,” students on the Highlands quick recall team test their own wits against peers from other schools by going head to head in a series of challenging questions. It requires not only an encyclopedic knowledge of a variety of topics but the wherewithal to be the first to bring the answers to mind.

At the helm of the Highlands quick recall team is engineering and career readiness teacher John Warford. “We’ve got a good mix of students, usually around thirty to thirty-five kids total – they’re a competitive bunch and have had some strong showings,” he says. “Beyond wins and losses, though, I think the biggest success is watching their confidence grow—students who might be quiet in the classroom suddenly light up when they’re buzzing in and answering tough questions.”

The Fort Thomas Education Foundation has also helped support the team by funding a grant that presented new quick recall buttons for them – the exact “buzzers” that allow their speedy fingers to ring in before their opponents. “The Foundation has been a huge help. I’ve applied for and received support that’s allowed me to buy resources for my teams that I wouldn’t have been able to otherwise,” explains Warford. “I also appreciate that it doesn’t feel overwhelming to apply for these grants —it’s something a busy teacher can realistically complete, and the Foundation folks are always approachable if you have a question.

Warford says the assistance provided by the Education Foundation makes a tremendous difference in the opportunities granted to children in the school system. “I think it’s crucial,” he explains. “Schools often have more ideas and dreams than their budgets can cover, so having an organization that steps in to bridge that gap makes a significant difference. It’s not just about ‘extras’ — sometimes it’s about giving kids experiences that spark a passion or open a door for them. And yes, I think it’s a pretty unique and fortunate situation—we’re lucky to have that kind of community support.”