South St. Louis County News

St. Louis Call Newspapers

South St. Louis County News

St. Louis Call Newspapers

South St. Louis County News

St. Louis Call Newspapers

Oakville ‘mathletes’ rank 24th in nation

The Oakville High School math honor society chapter of Mu Alpha Theta recently proved it boasts some of the best high school mathematicians in the country.

The Oakville “mathletes” earned a 24th-place ranking in the 2004-2005 Mu Alpha Theta “Log 1” contest sponsored by Na-tional Assessment & Testing, according to a Mehlville School District news release.

The competition included thousands of participants from hundreds of schools in America, the release stated.

Oakville’s Mu Alpha Theta club is in its third year. Sponsor Ronda Brown has seen the club grow from a handful of members to 40 students this year.

“I’m thrilled to death,” Brown said of the ranking. “Taking part in these types of competition is good for students. Some-times the atmosphere is very intense, and I want my Oakville students to be part of it.”

The annual “Log 1” contest consists of three rounds throughout the year. Round 1 features a 15-problem individual test covering a broad range of topics and difficulties. Students are divided into three divisions based on mathematical experience.

The Theta division is for students in algebra II, geometry or lower. Alpha division students are enrolled in pre-calculus math classes, and Mu division competitors have all taken calculus courses.

At this year’s “Log 1” event, Brian Manning posted Oakville’s highest score, leading his team to the 24th ranking. Oakville can improve its national ranking at the Round 2 competition in January..

Oakville’s Mu Alpha Theta Club meets Thursdays after school, alternating between practicing math skills and enjoying club activities. Club officers include President Meghna Nagabhushan, Vice President Amanda Lindsey, Treasurer Tommie Jones and Sergeant at Arms Beth Schwender.

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