Several students from Pomperaug Elementary School were among the nearly 150,000 students worldwide to take part this year in the Math Olympiad program. They participated in a series of five monthly contests of 5 problems each, from November to March, and weekly after-school practice sessions under the supervision and coaching of Mrs. Ewers, a fifth grade teacher, and Mrs. Hampton, a parent volunteer. They taught the children to solve unusual and difficult problems and to think creatively.

 The students responded well and were all recognized with certificates at the award ceremony on June 4^th at Ballentine Park. Three of the mathletes won national awards for excellence within the Elementary School Division.  Jack Y. was given a silver pin, which is awarded to those who whose score is within the top 10% in the nation.  Alexandra F. and Ted B. were given felt patches, which are awarded to students whose score is within the top 50% in the nation. 

 The Math Olympiad serves over 4500 teams and 100,000 students nationally and about 1800 teams and 45,000 students in 32 other countries.  Since 1979, it has provided challenging, thought-provoking problems that stretch the abilities of students in grades 4-8.  The students at PES have responded to the challenge with eagerness and enthusiasm.  Mrs. Ewers looks forward to continuing the PES Math Club for years to come.