New Middletown Elementary

When someone recommends students to join a team, most may think of basketball, soccer or baseball - physical teams. However, at New Middletown Elementary School, we have another kind of team our students love that also teaches what it means to work hard, compete, and succeed — the M.A.T.H. Bowl team!

M.A.T.H. Bowl is a statewide academic competition organized by the Indiana Association of School Principals. 

This year’s team was made up of seven students in grades four through six. The central topic - geometry - was challenging and often the concepts covered are mainly sixth grade standards. We’re incredibly proud of our students and excited to share New Middletown’s team proudly placed 31st out of 89 teams statewide - their highest placement yet under the leadership of coach and sixth-grade teacher, Mrs. Burke!

We think M.A.T.H. Bowl is a great opportunity for all students for reasons explained below.

1. It Builds Academic Confidence

The questions students are answering are not easy, but even our fourth grade team members face them head-on and with confidence. Competing teaches students to trust their skills and think critically under pressure. Every practice and competition builds stronger math skills and boosts academic confidence.

2. It Encourages Teamwork and Leadership

This is truly a team event! Competitions consist of four rounds with eight questions each, and students must work together to solve problems by listening to their team captain. During practices and competitions students are learning how to collaborate, communicate and lead respectfully while under pressure. Our team did so well this year!

3. It Makes Learning Fun and Goal-Oriented

Similar to sports practices, we also did drills at practices including a mix of problem-solving games, practice questions, and instructional videos. Each tournament we would set goals like improving scores or mastering a tricky geometry topic to help students build perseverance.

Our M.A.T.H Bowl team is about more than just numbers. We’re about growing skills, building friendships and challenging yourself. Congratulations to our amazing New Middletown team on another successful season!