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History
AGQBA is the Arkansas Governor's Quiz Bowl Association, an alliance of Quiz Bowl coaches from around the state. As stated in the organization's constitution, the goal of the AGQBA is to promote academic team competition throughout the state and at all education levels.
Quiz Bowl started in Arkansas in 1985 as a program of the Department of Education. A successful program from the start, Quiz Bowl soon grew too large to be dealt with by one person on a part-time basis. In 1995, a decision was made to turn the responsibilities over to the coaches through a coaches' association. Carolyn Shry and Martha Cathey began the process by recruiting coaches to be on the organizing board. A committee of 25 volunteers went to work in January 1996. Coaches from each school size and area of the state met regularly through the year to revise rules, promote competition, encourage new schools to join and a myriad of other details.
The first competitions sponsored by AGQBA took place in spring 1997. Changes in the competition schedule and structure were noticeable and generally well received. A record number of schools participated in 1996-1997.
1997-1998 saw more records and improvements for Quiz Bowl in Arkansas. Public and private schools placed more emphasis on academic competition. Administrators increased support of time and money. Sponsors donated money in record amounts. The first edition of the AGQBA Handbook was published. Coaches asked board members for statewide meetings and responded to surveys. Recognition by media and legislature began increasing.
1998-1999 expanded coaches involvement. Coaches voted in to increase teams to 8 members. The Governor's office matched private funds to assist with scholarship money and legislators became aware of the needs of AGQBA.
1999-2000 became the first year for the AGQBA to receive legislated funding. This allowed for expansion to include Junior High teams and competitions fully fund teams to national competitions, reinstate scholarship moneys, start an All-star Camp, and recognize top Junior and Senior high teams at a state banquet. 2000-2001 followed in much the same pattern with the addition of AETN airing all 10 teams participating at the overall tournament over several weeks time. Northside High School won the ASCN National Tournament in Chicago.
2001-2002 promises further additions. This year all Senior High State winners will be offered registration money to go to ASCN in Chicago. An All Star Camp will be held in the fall for interested students. A question bank will be made available for Senior High teams wanting to hold invitational tournaments to receive questions for nominal cost.