Students from West Chicago Community High School earned a third-place finish at the 2026 National LifeSmarts Competition, competing against top teams from across the country.
The nationally recognized competition challenges students in areas including personal finance, consumer rights, environmental issues, technology, workforce preparation, and health and safety.
Representing West Chicago Community High School were students Niya Patel (captain), Elio Bregu, Alex Jacobo, Keelie Steward, and Jason Thunberg. The team is coached by Don Zabelin.
The Wildcats advanced to the national competition after capturing the Illinois state championship earlier this year.
The national event included multiple rounds of competition, including individual assessments, public service announcement development, team challenges, and live buzzer-style quiz bowl matches. In the Sweet 16, West
Chicago rallied to defeat Hawaii, 165-145, before advancing past Rhode Island to earn a place in the national semifinals. In the semifinals, the Wildcats faced top-seeded Georgia and ultimately finished third in the nation.
“It was very impressive to see the amount of practical information these students have learned,” said coach Don Zabelin. “They have dedicated themselves to LifeSmarts over the past two years, and their hard work truly paid off.”
Each team member received a $750 scholarship for the team’s national finish.
The Wildcats also earned several outstanding individual honors during the competition, including Keelie Steward placing 5th in Technology, Niya Patel placing 4th in Environment, Alex Jacobo placing 3rd in Personal Finance,
and Elio Bregu earning the title of National Champion in Consumer Rights & Responsibilities. In addition, Niya Patel earned a $1,000 scholarship for her project as an Over-the-Counter Medicine Safety Mentor.
LifeSmarts is a program of the National Consumers League that helps students develop practical knowledge and real-world skills through academic competition and leadership opportunities.
The team’s success reflects the critical thinking, collaboration, and problem-solving skills Wildcats continue to develop both inside and outside the classroom.
About West Chicago Community High School District 94
West Chicago Community High School District 94 serves the communities of West Chicago, Winfield, Warrenville, Carol Stream, and Wheaton, Illinois. The district is committed to its mission to 'ignite a passion for learning, foster leadership & responsibility, & empower all learners to live their personal best.'