Academic Contests Stretch Student Abilities

written by Julie Berndt | March 8, 2024

The Annual Valparaiso University Math Contest and Annual Spelling Bee give a chance for Eagle students to compete against some of the best in the region.

MATH CONTEST

The top three math students in each grade traveled to Valparaiso University to compete against seven other area Lutheran Schools top mathematicians.  Students attended practice after school last Friday where they honed their skills. 

  • 5th grade: Hunter Crostreet, Vincent Fischer, and Luke Mobley.
  • 6th grade: Lilly Aquino, Ian Roule, & Peter Solum.
  • 7th grade: Ben Cowgill, Katie Jedrysek, Xander Watkins.
  • 8th grade: Ben Aquino, Kenneth Martinez and Leah Fischer.    

The day started with a fifty question assessment where each grade level was separately challenged. Upon completion students were taken to the University Music Department for a lesson on the interaction of music, math and technology.  Two Valparaiso University professors led the presentation with University students assisting.  Students were paired off and directed to create their own musical composition using an assortment of items.  The Valparaiso University students then interacted with St. John’s students about their compositions.  Finally students were able to perform their work in front of all the math contestants, math professors and university students.  

After students were treated to lunch, the award ceremony began.  We are proud to announce that five St. John’s Lutheran School students PLACED in their grade level, and one was even in FIRST PLACE! In 5th Grade Hunter Crostreet placed 4th. In 6th Grade Peter Solum captured 3rd place and Ian Roule placed 5th. Our own Ben Cowgill took 1st place in 7th grade and in 8th grade Ben Aquino placed 5th.   

Additionally students that have had the privilege to attend the competition for three or more years were recognized and given a large chocolate bar including Leah Beth Fischer, Katie Jedrysek, Ben Aquino and Ben Cowgill. 

SPELLING BEE

The Regional Spelling Bee will be held on Thursday, March 14th at Tri-Township Schools located in Wanatah. Our 8th grade winner, Nolan Roule, will be competing. If you would like to go and root for Nolan, the school is located at 309 School Drive!