Continuing to solve for success, Beaver Area High School’s Math League members once again performed exceptionally well.

As a statewide competition, Pennsylvania Math League (PAML) provides students with an opportunity to partake in an educational experience using the crown jewel of the human body—the brain.

From October to March, competitions are held once a month. Each school districts’ Math League sponsor receives an envelope containing the assessment and required test date window.

Students get only 30 minutes to answer six challenging short-answer math questions—ranging from algebra to pre-calculus—to the best of their ability. In order to submit a test score, one must work alone (calculator usage is permitted).

At the end of each session, students may ask questions about the assigned problems, enhancing the discussion of new topics and reviewing previous ones.

After the sponsor submits the scores, PAML officials send high school score reports approximately a week after the last applicable test date. The score report summary, which is separated by county, shows the highest scoring schools and students.

To promote connections made between information stored in one’s memory and current material taught, Beaver Area High School has participated in Math League for seven years.

Thanks to Beaver Area’s Math League sponsor, Mr. Corey Shinton, who suggested the wonderful opportunity, students find enjoyment in tackling mental obstacles in mathematics.

Mr. Shinton’s enthusiasm along with hardworking, intelligent students resulted in Beaver Area earning a Math League Regional Championship plaque last year as one of the competition’s top 30 schools.

This year’s 15 members strived to exceed the previous level of success. After the final March 22 competition, students anxiously await to hear the overall ranking.

As of the fifth contest, Beaver Area scored higher than all districts in Beaver County.

“Participation was good. Scores were very high. I am proud of how the students have done so far,” Mr. Shinton stated while reflecting upon the scores.

Senior Elizabeth Logan, a Math League competitor, explained, “Our improvement was certainly remarkable. I am glad we are beating good schools. I hope others consider joining the league next year.”

To obtain an analytical mindset and answer math questions in terms of efficiency, high school students should keep Logan’s suggestion in mind.

Those interested in participating next year can find meeting time updates on Mr. Shinton’s classroom board and the morning announcements.

Obviously, a solid math background is helpful in earning outstanding scores, but no particular class is a prerequisite for the competition.

“Next year, I hope that Math League will have a large number of students with varying strengths—all striving to put their best foot forward,” Mr. Shinton mentioned.

If you want to help Math League continue its success, encounter challenging problems, and learn new topics, do not hesitate to join the competition, for your contribution will be of great value.