Five third grade students from Mount Vernon were nominated as National Math Stars. Those third graders have to score in the top 2 percent statewide on the mathematics Iowa Statewide Assessment of Student Progress. A total of 764 students were nominated for the National Math Stars program, with 17 students eventually selected statewide.

Launched in 2023, NMS identifies mathematically extraordinary second and third-graders and provides long-term, individualized support to help them maximize their talents. NMS’ core program provides each student with more than $100,000 in mentorship, enrichment opportunities, and other resources over 10 years or until high school graduation.

Mount Vernon elementary students nominated for the award are (left to right) Macklen Meyer, Owen Cullen, Lucy Wolter, Fia Moore and Yates Yamanishi.