Coach Lana Martin and Assistant Coach Courtney Smith pose with Pinon’s Mathletes. Photo Courtesy LAPS

Pinon’s Mathcounts team of Evan Cunningham, Jane Smith, Leif Wald-Hopkins, and Norah Whitton secured 2nd place in the team standings. Photo Courtesy LAPS

LAPS NEWS RELEASE

On Saturday, February 24, young math enthusiasts from Piñon Elementary School showcased their problem-solving prowess at the Northern New Mexico Chapter Mathcounts competition, held at Pojoaque High School. Among a gathering of several teams, Piñon Elementary 6th grade students stood out, demonstrating their great problem-solving skills.

Led by their dedicated coach and sixth grade teacher, Lana Martin, who has been running the Mathcounts club since 2007, and supported by assistant coach, GATE teacher, Courtney Smith, Pinon Mathletes brought their A-game to the competition. With 12 club members, they represented the largest contingent from any school present.

The day was filled with intense calculations and strategic thinking as students grappled with a series of challenging math events: Spring Round, Team and Target Rounds.

Despite the stiff competition, Piñon Elementary Mathcounts team consisting of Evan
Cunningham, Jane Smith, Norah Whitton, and Leif Wald-Hopkins, secured an impressive 2nd
place in the team standings. Five students from Piñon Elementary earned placements in the top 16 for the Countdown Round, showcasing not only their mathematical proficiency but also their
ability to perform under pressure.

The success of Piñon Elementary Mathcounts team is a testament to the hard work and commitment of both the students and their coaches. Congratulations to these Mathletes on their outstanding performance!