The top four individuals, including one Missoula student, and the coach of the winning team won an all-expenses-paid trip to compete in the Mathcounts National Competition in Washington, D.C., on May 7.
Eighth-graders Alec Patterson from Missoula's Rattlesnake Middle School and Kate Dramstad, Ross Rowsey and Antony Speranza from Helen's C.R. Anderson Middle School took the top state honors this year. Chuck Bozdog, of C.R. Anderson Middle School, coached the winning team.
Teachers and students had been preparing for the competition since last September. The students trained within their schools before starting the formal competition. The first level of the competition began in January and early February when the student Mathletes competed to become members of their school teams.
From there, 444 students from 68 middle schools competed at the regional level in February. Winners at the regional level received prizes and advanced to the state competition.
Mathcounts is a combination math coaching and competition program. Students are tested on such topics as probability, statistics, linear algebra and polynomials. The competition consists of written tests and a fast-paced oral match.
The purpose of the Mathcounts program is to motivate junior high school students in mathematics and interest them in technology-related careers. It is designed to create interest and enthusiasm in mathematics by creating an environment similar to athletic programs, including intensive training, competition, teamwork and recognition. Widely recognized as an effective middle school mathematics coaching and competition program, Mathcounts is celebrating its 21st anniversary.
The Mathcounts program is organized by the National Society of Professional Engineers on a national level. Locally, Mathcounts is organized by the Montana Society of Engineers, with local volunteer effort being provided by area engineers, students and professionals.
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