DELRAY BEACH -The Knights of Pythagoras Mentoring Network, Inc. is partnering with the Roots Cultural Festival in hosting the Academic Olympics this year. The daylong event will be at Pompey Park Recreational Center, 1101 NW Second St., Delray Beach from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Students from across Palm Beach County are expected to compete in five academic divisions: geography, reading, spelling, math and oratory.

"Naturally, we are excited to be a part of the Roots Festival, which is in its 30th year," said Dario Ayala, treasurer for the KOPMN and coordinator for the event. "But moreso, we are thrilled to be a partner in promoting academics among our kids, which is in line with our mission."

Parents of the Knights will serve as proctors and monitor the contests throughout the day, Ayala said.

The Olympics is one component of the annual festival, which celebrates its 30th anniversary Aug. 10-12.

"We are so happy to have the Knights of Pythagoras on board this year," said Marilyn Harden, event coordinater. "We hope this will be the beginning of many other partnerships between us."

Certificates and other prizes will be awarded to the winners.

About the Roots Cultural Festival:

The festival kicks off at 6:30 p.m. on Aug. 10 with a street parade from the Pompey Park Community Center, 1101 NW Second St., and ending at Old School Square. The program features music, dance, food and children's activities at the outdoor entertainment pavilion and on the grounds of Old School Square.

The parade will feature floats, the Shriners, area elected officials and dignitaries.

The weekend culminates in a gospel program Aug. 12, featuring the Chenaniah Praise Dancers of Boynton Beach and other groups that the committee has not finishing booking.

For information, call  561-274-0365 or visit http://www.delrayrootsfestival.org.