MathCounts Students Advance to the State Competition
Linn-Mar students in 6th through 8th grade recently showcased their math skills at the MathCounts district competition, with several advancing to the state level.
MathCounts is a program that encourages middle school students to strengthen their problem-solving abilities through competitive mathematics. The program allows students to engage in challenging math problems outside of the classroom setting.
“MathCounts is an opportunity for students to enhance their math skills beyond the classroom,” said Natalie Ginty, a Linn-Mar MathCounts coach at Oak Ridge. “They meet twice a week and work through challenging problems to prepare for competitions.”
Students compete in multiple rounds, including a countdown round where top competitors face off in a fast-paced, head-to-head challenge. The competition fosters teamwork, critical thinking, and a love for mathematics among participants.
“My favorite part would definitely be working with other people to solve different problems,” said Aarud A., a student at Oak Ridge. “It’s a great way to learn new math concepts and challenge myself.”
“We are proud of our students and their dedication to mathematics,” said Dale Brandt, a volunteer MathCounts coach at Excelsior. “Making MathCounts a priority, just like sports, helps these students grow and achieve success.”
Morgan Jeffery, a MathCounts advisor at Excelsior, shared her admiration for the students’ abilities. “I’m always impressed by what these students can do. The way they approach complex problems and find creative solutions is truly remarkable.”
Brenda Bauermeister, a Linn-Mar MathCounts at Boulder Peak , expressed how thrilled her students were to compete. “They are really excited about math. I love that these students are motivated and excited to compete in a math competition.”
Linn-Mar students performed exceptionally well at the district competition, with 10 students earning a spot at the upcoming state competition. The following students will represent Linn-Mar at the state level:
- Ethan Weng – Oak Ridge – 1st place individual & 1st place team
- Tyler Walstrom – Oak Ridge – 2nd place individual & 1st place team
- Ahmed Rifaat Asic Abuthahir – Oak Ridge – 5th place individual & 1st place team
- Purandar Yeruva – Oak Ridge – 1st place team
- Aarud Ajoykumar – Oak Ridge – 6th place individual
- Abhinav Patel – Hazel Point – 8th place individual
- Fletcher Sams – Excelsior – 9th place individual
- Evan Paulsen – Excelsior – 10th place individual
- Ariv Mukati – Oak Ridge – 11th place individual
- Peyton Vrba – Excelsior – 12th place individual
The state competition will take place at the end of March, where Linn-Mar students will compete against other students from across Iowa.
Results from the State Competition
Linn-Mar’s Oak Ridge MathCounts team had an impressive showing at the state competition, earning 4th place overall. Out of approximately 120 students, Tyler Walstrom led the team with a 9th-place finish, advancing in the State Countdown Round from 10th to 9th place. Ariv Mkati placed 23rd, and Purandar Yeruva finished 27th, contributing to the team’s success. Excelsior’s Peyton Vrba, Evan Paulsen, and Fletcher also placed well, finishing in the top third of competitors. All Linn-Mar students put in great effort and proudly represented the district at the state level.
- Tyler Walstrom – Oak Ridge – 9th place
- Ariv Mukati – Oak Ridge – 23rd place
- Purandar Yeruva – Oak Ridge – 27th place
- Fletcher Sams – Excelsior – 31st place
- Evan Paulsen – Excelsior – 32nd place
- Ahmed Rifaat Asic Abuthahir – Oak Ridge – 36th place
- Ethan Weng – Oak Ridge – 37th place
- Peyton Vrba – Excelsior – 40th place
- Abhinav Patel – Hazel Point – 42nd place
- Aarud Ajoykumar – Oak Ridge – 54th place