In our middle school math program this year, students have been participating in various math competitions. Hugo participated in Math Olympiads, a competition that emphasizes logic and problem-solving skills. Participants in Math Olympiads are located in all fifty states, three US territories, and thirty foreign countries. Hugo scored within the top 3-10%, which earned him a silver pin.
Students also competed in the Catholic Math League competitions. Our students competed against hundreds of students at other Catholic schools across the nation. In sixth grade, both Liam and Cono scored in the top 6%, and Andy scored in the top 10%. For our regional division, in the 6th grade category, our school came in 2nd place. In seventh grade, Dai-nghia, Elias, Isaac, and Reayn scored in the top 10%. In the Algebra 1 category, Joseph scored in the top 8%, and Abbie and Gavin scored in the top 16%. Furthermore, in the regional division for the Algebra 1 category, Joseph earned 4th place!
Besides developing their critical thinking skills through these competitions, middle school students have also engaged in more STEM activities. All middle school students have explored the concept of solar energy through creating a solar-powered insect that moves when put under grow lights or the sun. Seventh grade students have piloted our new Kids Spark STEM Pathways Lab, which was recently purchased by the school using gala funds. This all-inclusive STEM program emphasizes mathematical modeling, engineering, and robotics and is designed to help students learn foundational STEM fluencies and help students develop critical thinking and problem solving skills. By the end of the year, the entire middle school will have had a chance to engage in a few of the STEM lessons as well.