Math students compete at ESU

For about 700 students from nearly 50 Kansas high schools, the competitive focus was on algebra, geometry, math and computer programming problem solving. Even so, there were parents cheering and taking photos from the sidelines of the Donald L. Bruyr Mathematics Day competition at Emporia State University Wednesday, Oct. 24.

“Math usually isn’t a spectator sport,” said Dr. Connie Schrock, an ESU professor of mathematics, computer science and economics. In her 20th year organizing the event, Schrock said it encourages students to enjoy math.

“We think it encourages students to have fun with math, that it’s a thinking and reasoning operation, not just a collection of facts,” Schrock said, explaining the purpose of Math Day.

Parents and teachers stood along the conference room walls, cheering students’ correct answers. The spectators could also be seen taking notes about the type of questions the ESU faculty posed as part of the competition so they could help students prepare for next year’s event.

Students circulated through ESU’s Memorial Union meeting rooms as they participated in individual and team competitions in algebra, geometry, math and computer programming. They also had opportunities to tour ESU’s Geology and Natural History museums while they were on campus.

Mathematics Day at ESU is held each year in memory of Dr. Donald L. Bruyr, former ESU math professor, who provided the inspiration and leadership for the development of ESU’s Math Day competition.

Last Updated February 4, 2008>