And Mt. Lebanon students aren't the only "Thinking Kids." Students in grades 4-12 all over the United States have found fun and friendship as members of the Academic Games Leagues of America (AGLOA). While students may play individually, most play in teams of five.

According to its Web site (www.agloa.net), AGLOA is dedicated to developing "Thinking Kids" of character, excellence and integrity. The non-profit organization holds competitions throughout the nation that culminate in a National Championship Tournament each year in April.

Players are divided into the following divisions according to their grade levels: Elementary (grades 4-6), Middle (grades 7-8), Junior (grades 9-10) and Senior (grades 11-12).

Games include Equations (ranging from basic equations to advanced, high school level math); On-Sets (the mathematics of Set Theory); Linguishtik (applied grammar, vocabulary and writing skills); Presidents (knowledge of cultural and political events surrounding them); Propaganda (recognition of persuasion techniques taken from real-life advertisements, political approaches and normal human interactions); and World Events (current events of the past year).

Mt. Lebanon players all showcase different strengths, and all are enthusiastic about the games, including Kyla Washington, a Middle division player from Mt. Lebanon. "My first year, it was fun to see how different it was than things I've done in the past, and how beneficial it was to future school years."

Having been a participant for three years, my favorite games are the language arts games Propaganda and Linguishtik.

Just as the players are passionate about Academic Games, the coaches helping them learn also know the benefits of play. Former Academic Games coach Tim Smith of Mellon Middle School in Mt. Lebanon, says, "The students who get involved with it gain a lot--it makes a student well-rounded, and it's a chance to compete on a National level."

Just as playing a sport is not for everyone, Academic Games may not be the perfect fit for every student. But, AGamers on every level will tell you that one can only improve with time and practice.

Susan Hepburn is an eighth grade student at Mellon Middle School in Mt. Lebanon.