Minister congratulates young mathematicians

Education Minister Gerry Reid today congratulated those students who participated in the 16^th annual NLTA Senior Mathematics League provincial final game which was held May 3 at Memorial University.

The NLTA Senior Mathematics League began in 1987, and has grown into a province-wide competition with schools competing in local leagues across Newfoundland and Labrador. Most students compete in person at local sites, and others use the Web version of the games. The best problem-solving teams from participating districts are brought together for the annual provincial championship game.

Eleven teams, comprised of 44 of the province�s best mathematics problem-solvers from nearly every school district participated in the provincial final. They were joined by teachers, parents, mathematics professors, and invited guests as they tried their hand at solving 10 challenging problems and a four-problem relay question.

"I offer sincere congratulations to students of Prince of Wales Collegiate who won top honours at the competition," said Minister Reid. "Success in competitions such as this can only be achieved if each member of the team demonstrates both problem-solving skills and teamwork. These are two attributes highly valued in today�s economy."

The Canadian Mathematical Society has published two books of games used in this league and math leagues in Nova Scotia and Ontario are currently using some of the games. The league is a cooperative effort of the NLTA, Memorial University and the Department of Education.

"This league captures a tremendous spirit of cooperation among mathematics educators at the high school and university level, while affording students the opportunity to grow as problem-solvers, developing valuable lifelong skills. It is an excellent example of what a love of teaching and a spirit of cooperation among educators can produce," said Minister Reid.

Other winners included Clarenville High which received second place, and Exploits Valley High, Grand Falls-Windsor, which scored third.

Media contact: Elizabeth Matthews, Communications, (709) 729-0048, (709) 727-3438

2003 05 09                                       10:00 a.m.