A team of Chattanooga Girls Leadership Academy middle school students won third place in the 2012 MathCounts Chattanooga chapter competition, which was held at UTC. MathCounts is a national enrichment club and competition program that promotes middle school mathematics achievement. Nationally, nearly 28,000 students participate each year, competing at the school, chapter and state level to win a coveted spot in the national competition.
"These students have made a notable effort, not only to improve their mathematical skills, but to face off against other schools," says Louis Rodriguez, CGLA middle school math teacher who serves as sponsor and coach for the MathCounts program. "Participation in the club has given them a sense of camaraderie and confidence that they can compete toe to toe with anyone." In November, CGLA's team began meeting weekly to develop problem solving strategies and practice advanced math skills.
"One thing I learned from the MathCounts competition was that I should always try something before saying I cannot do it, because sometimes it's better to try and face my fears instead of giving up," says sixth grader Frida Uwimana, who was the highest scoring CGLA Mathlete. "I was so confident about myself because it was nothing to be scared of and my team worked together well."
Those participating were Frida Uwimana, Vinceia Crittenden, Patricia Trotter, Hilary Williams, Mai Dupre, Keyanna Westfield, Chloe Jones, Wendy Reynoso, A'keia Colley and Emily Newton.