For the first time in 35 years, the U.S. Academic Decathlon National Finals will be in Des Moines. The competition will run from May 1-3 at the Iowa Events Center. Catch Des Moines has announced that the event will involve nearly 700 of the country’s top high school scholars and will generate about $894,000 in direct economic impact. The academic tournament challenges students across 10 events ranging from math and science to art, literature and public speaking. The finals culminate in the Super Quiz, open to spectators and a fan favorite. Most states send two or three high school teams to compete. Iowa teams in the competition include Johnston High School and Denison High School.