The AP Macroeconomics class got a chance to show off their skills on Dec. 17 as they competed with each other in the Capstone Economy Challenge.

The Capstone Challenge presents the students with a real-life situation of analyzing the current economy. The students in separate groups study where it’s headed, the current policies, and the federal funds rate.

“It’s unique and cool because the students are proposed with a question with no answer, only thorough, detailed analysis.” said AP Macroeconomics teacher Mr. Rodney Gerdes.

After collecting their data, the participants prepare a seven-minute presentation for four judges: Mrs. Jan Kellerman, Mr. Matt Willett, Mr. Ron Fedorshak, and Mr. Dan Thorton, who spent thirty years as an economist, to observe. Each judge grades in five categories: knowledge of the economy, response to questions, presentation quality, record analysis, and teamwork.

“Everyone backed up their points well and didn’t get intimidated by the questions,” said Willett.

Courtney Becker, Erin O’Neill, Kate Rosemann, Ellie Sona, and Samantha Robert scored the highest in the challenge, finishing with a 179 out of 200 points.

“It was difficult but I liked the challenge. It really tested what you knew,” said Becker.