T. Falls math students compete at UM

More than 1,000 Montana students in grades 7-12 attended the annual Montana Council of Teachers Mathematics Contest held at the University of Montana last Thursday. Thompson Falls was well represented by forty students who were selected by mathematics teachers Jeffreyanne VonHeeder and Katrina Nygaard.

In six, half-hour rounds, students were tested (grade level based) on Foundations, Number Concepts, Dimensions and Shapes, Problem Solving, Applied Math, Intermediate or Advanced Math and a Pot Luck (a mixture of different mathematic topics). Although the contest is mostly for fun, some upper-class students competed for scholarships and were tested on more advanced concepts. During the rounds, students formed teams to take a final test showing their stuff.

Students enjoyed a day on the college campus and learned more than math. Some students were impressed with the amount of people the University Center can accommodate, and enjoyed people watching, witnessing many walks of life. For many of the younger students, this was their first time on a college campus and many new experiences were gained.

"The students get a lot out of going to the math competition at the U of M and are exposed to math in a differenty way," Nygaard said. "They always seem to enjoy the environment," which was bustling with activity and carried the sounds of intellectual discussion as well as melodies of various pianists playing the center's public piano.

Montana GEAR UP, a program that encourages postsecondary education for all students regardless of economic background, funded the Thompson Falls trip to the competition and gave each student $7 toward lunch at the University. With unlimited choices, some students had a salad or sandwich, but some ventured further and experienced a sushi lunch.

Former teacher Karla Padden began taking Thompson Falls students to the competition over 10 years ago. When Nygaard became employed at Falls, she continued the tradition and plans to continue participating in the competition. "I enjoy bringing them (students) every year."

VonHeeder is new to the district this year serving as the junior high math teacher. This was her first year attending the event. "We are so proud of the math students and their hard work," said VonHeeder. "I hope that they continue their excitement for math in all their endeavors."

Representing the junior high were Ellie Baxter, Kael Brown, Jesse Claridge, Braxton Dorscher, Breck Ferris, Justin Haagenson, Max Hannum, Carter McGraw, Brayden McJunkin, Levi Meyers, Hattie Neesvig, Mollie Nichols, Theo Nygaard, Anna Pallister, Briar Palmer, Garth Parker, Wesley Powers, Eli Ratliff, Cella VanHuss, Josh Wilhite and Faith Palmer.

High school attendees were Megan Baxter, Brooke Bowlin, Ethan Brown, Jolia Buchanan, Belle Cooper, Sierra Hanks, Regan Hanks, Brad Lantz, Justin Morgan, Josey Neesvig, Nicole Ngo, Nathan Ostwald, Lance Palmer, Daniel Ryan, Ryan Schrader, Maya Stiles, Trae Thilmony, Kacy VanZanten and Nick Viera.