For Mathletes, the weekly practice meetings and constant studying is all worth it when you get that first place win. Mathletes is one of the many clubs and after school activities offered here at Sandburg. The club is dedicated to monthly mathematics competitions hosted at various schools in the SWSC to challenge students’ mathematical comprehension and capabilities.

Sponsors give student competitors practice problem packets to complete every week. The team then meets one day every week to take practice tests, ask questions, and review for one hour after school.

The “packets gradually become more challenging as the topic advances in order to compete in competitions at various schools every month,” as Malak Abusini, a sophomore who is in her second year of Mathletes, states.

The Mathletes team is split into two groups: a Junior Varsity team that consists of freshman and sophomores run by Mr. Brewczynski, and a Varsity team of juniors and seniors run by Mr. Ronquillo.

Mr. Brewcznski is grateful to be able to instruct math to students “that are interested in learning” as he normally teaches computer science classes, not direct math classes. 

Currently, it is roughly the halfway point of the club’s season. There have been three competitions, one each month since September. Usually four to five schools participate in each competition. In the last two, Sandburg has won first place. The coaches and competitors were ecstatic to receive the news. 

Abusini states that “…although [it is] seen as challenging, [Mathletes] is actually laid-back, as they provide you with time and resources to improve, and a place to test your new knowledge. It’s a great way to improve foundations for all types of math and real-world problem solving skills.”

The curriculum for the Junior Varsity team follows the Academic Math 1 curriculum and progresses accordingly with each year.

Anyone can join Mathletes; there is no invitation required. Although invitations are sent to students who excel in math, you do not need one to join. Anyone who enjoys solving mathematical problems is encouraged to participate. 

The mathletes season ends in January; however, there still are regional and state competitions throughout the rest of the year if students qualify. The competition that determines both individual and group qualification for state takes place in February.

Here, previous performances against other schools have no barring. In state and regional competitions, students can qualify individually or as a team. Many individuals and groups have qualified for state. However, Sandburg as a whole team has yet to qualify for state. This goal “would be great,” says Mr. Brew.

Mathletes is a fun and interactive club that is amazing for anyone competitive who wants to improve their mathematical skills, and this season is already off to a successful start.