Operating under the charter of the United States Academic Decathlon, the Oregon Academic Decathlon brings this scholastic competition to high schools throughout the state of Oregon. The decathlon features students of various grade-point averages coming together to work as a team. Students study a broad and detailed curriculum that is unified under a different theme each year. All students take exams in seven subjects: mathematics, social science, language & literature, music, science, economics, and art, and perform in three subjective categories: speech, interview, and essay. The program builds study and research skills, and develops students' abilities to speak in public, give professional interviews, and write effectively. The intensive program also fosters teamwork, and a commitment to education. Often, it is the single reason students, especially those at lower grade-point averages, stay focused on succeeding in school and continuing on to college. It has proven to provide benefits beyond high school, being an amazing preparation for the college experience.