Minnetonka Geography Whiz Among Top in State

Friday was a big day for one Minnetonka student. Jack Werner, a fifth-grader at Deephaven Elementary, was a semifinalist in the 2011 Minnesota Geographic Bee. Werner took home eighth place—going an impressive 12 rounds before getting a question wrong.

“Since Jack was little he's always been obsessed with maps, so this seems kind of fitting that he has actually made it this far,” Jack’s mom, Amy Werner said. “We're just so happy for him and proud of him at the same time.”

Werner traveled to St. Cloud State University Friday to compete for the chance to represent Minnesota at the national finals in Washington, D.C., May 24-25.  He was one of 100 fourth- to eighth-graders statewide who made it to the state-level. Even more impressive—Werner was the youngest competitor to reach the top ten on Friday. 

"Learning about geography is something he enjoys so much, I think prepping for the bee has been fun in his mind!” Amy Werner said.

Friday's state winner will travel to Washington where "Jeopardy!" quizmaster Alex Trebek will host the championship round of the 23rd National Geographic Bee. The student crowned National Geographic Bee champion will win a $25,000 college scholarship. Last year more than 4 million students took part in the National Geographic Bee.