It is an exciting week to be a Bulldog as Algona High School (AHS) recognizes an extraordinary string of achievements across its diverse student programs. From state-level athletic qualifications to prestigious musical honors and leadership successes, AHS students continue to set a high standard for excellence in the 2025-2026 school year.

In a landmark achievement for the music department, the AHS High School Band has been selected as the 3A Honor Band for the Iowa Bandmasters Association. This prestigious selection identifies the group as the premier 3A band in the state of Iowa. To celebrate this honor, the ensemble will perform a showcase concert in Des Moines this May for the Iowa Bandmasters Association Convention.

The AHS Fine Arts department saw sweeping success at recent competitions:

Large Group Speech: Following the District competition on January 24, five out of six AHS events earned Division 1 ratings. The Short Film, Ensemble Acting, Radio News, Musical Theatre, and Group Improv teams will advance to the State Large Group Speech contest in Cherokee this Saturday, February 7. 

Jazz Choir: Out of fourteen performances at the Iowa High School Music Association State Jazz Choir Festival in Clear Lake last Saturday, the AHS Jazz Choir was one of only five performances to earn a coveted Division 1 rating. They're next performance will be at "Shake the Lakes" hosted by Spirit Lake High School on February 20. 

The Algona FFA Chapter recently competed in the 2026 Sub-District Competition, with several members advancing to Districts:

Cassidy Bierstedt (Ag Broadcasting) and Breckin Borchardt (Ag Sales) both took 2nd Gold and will advance.

Walker Eilerts and Alissa Engel (Chapter Program) earned Silver and are District alternates.

Charli Dodds (Job Interview) earned a Gold rating.

Additional honors were awarded to Malea Divis (Chapter Website & Conduct of Meetings), Josie Reynolds (Creed), and the Conduct of Meetings team.

Cassidy Bierstedt and Malea Divis will be interviewing for the prestigious North Central FFA District Officer team.

On Jan. 28, four Bulldogs showcased their skills in shooting, dribbling, and passing at the Special Olympics basketball skills competition. Ryan Barglof, Gaje Petersen, and Alyssa Moody all secured first-place finishes and will advance to the State Special Olympics competition in Iowa City on March 14. Adam Henrich also earned a strong fourth-place finish in a highly competitive bracket. (pictured from left: Alyssa Moody, Gaje Petersen, Mr. Andy Jacobson)

The Bulldog wrestling programs are heading to the postseason with significant momentum:

Boys Wrestling: The team secured its third consecutive trip to the State Team Duals after a decisive 39-24 victory over Osage. Carrying an 11-1 season record, the Bulldogs will compete at the Xtream Arena this Saturday.

Girls Wrestling: Following their own successful campaign, Coach Adams and the State-qualifying girls wrestlers were honored as they prepare for their upcoming appearances at the Girls State Wrestling Tournament in Coralville starting Thursday, February 5th. 

Full Girls Wrestling Team

State Qualifying Wrestlers and Coach Jake Adams

From left: Sienna Fehr, Reagan Haynes, Laura Stohr, Regan Jensen, Ruby Roof, Mara Davis

Algona High School is dedicated to fostering a community of learners who excel in academics, athletics, and the arts. Home of the Bulldogs, AHS prides itself on its tradition of excellence and student-led leadership.