MPES Third Graders Shine in National Math Competition

Three of the Carmel 6Cs -- collaboration, critical thinking, and community -- were on full display as third graders in Michelle Belasco’s class at Matthew Paterson Elementary School put their math skills to the test during the nationwide Tang Math Tournament, held October 20–22.

The Tang Math Tournament is a seasonal competition that transforms math practice into an exciting, high-energy classroom experience for students in kindergarten through fifth grade. Through engaging puzzles and friendly competition, students strengthen their problem-solving skills while building perseverance, teamwork, and a love of learning.

Mrs. Belasco’s class, proudly known as “The Diamonds,” truly lived up to their name! The class earned 1st place in the nation among third-grade classes, successfully completing an impressive 7,232 puzzles. Competing against students across all grade levels, kindergarten through fifth grade, the Diamonds also secured an outstanding 6th-place national ranking overall.
Their remarkable accomplishment reflects more than just numbers on a leaderboard. It showcases the power of community, collaboration, and critical thinking, and proves that when students work together, encourage one another, and embrace a challenge, their potential truly shines.

Congratulations to Mrs. Belasco’s Diamonds for demonstrating that hard work, collaboration, and a little competitive spirit can lead to extraordinary results.