The United States Academic Decathlon is the apex of academic competitions held in the U.S.  All students study for 10 different subject areas and compete head to head with each school in the State regardless of size.  Calais was the first school in the county to join this challenging competition when it was first organized in 1986.  During that time they have won over 180 individual medals, 22 trophies, the Super Quiz championship, and the overall 2nd place award in 1996.  CHS also has the distinction of setting the individual high scorer record in 1996.  The team consistently wins the regional competitions. In recent years CHS finished in the top five in State competition.  Although the competition team is set by national guidelines, the USAD experience is open to all students.