Flexing their brains instead of brawn, BSM’s Math League team strives not only to help students excel in all fields of mathematics, but to enjoy them as well. The team, made up of nearly 30 members, participates in both meets and write-in competitions throughout their winter season.
BSM’s Math League team, one of 172 teams in Minnesota, has competed for over 20 years, with the last four headed by Mrs. Jean Nightingale. “We’ve been really successful. Mrs. Goldberg went to state ten years out of 12. So far, [I’ve] been to state once,” Mrs. Nightingale said.
Team members can enter one of four events—Algebra, Geometry, Trigonometry, and Pre-Calculus—allowing students to choose a math form they’re comfortable with or one they want to improve in. “I think [Math League] helps because it stimulates your brain, and helps to review things you’ve already done as well as let you learn new things,” said junior Sophia Flumerfelt, a first-year team member.
In addition to its academic benefits, Math League also gives students a chance for friends to socialize and work together in a relaxed setting. “I like figuring out problems with everyone else, and having time to visit with people,” said sophomore Sarah Bianchi.
The team began practices at the beginning of October and currently preps for the first of five meets between November and February, as well as adapting to a new system for their six write-in competitions. “Because homeroom is so short, students now use their BSM hour for the write-in contests,” said Mrs. Nightingale.
With such a busy season ahead, each member has set personal goals for themselves, whether it be to win a meet or gain confidence in mathematics. “My goal is to make it to state, I have to say,” said junior Stephen Jacobs.
Due to the relaxed practice schedule, students can still join the welcoming Math League community even now that the season’s begun. “I like that everybody comes together. [How many] people will come to school early to do math problems? The bagels are a nice touch as well,” said Flumerfelt.
