Legacy Elementary students recently wrapped up an exciting month-long ST Math challenge, celebrating their hard work with a festive Halloween party. The "Monster Math" challenge was created to boost students' engagement with ST Math, a visual learning program that helps students grasp complex math concepts through interactive puzzles. 

Data Interventional Specialist Leeanna Davis explained the motivation behind the challenge. 

 "We did a school-wide competition to kick off our ST Math usage for the school year. Each grade worked to reach a weekly puzzle goal, and the grade levels closest to their goal won a popcorn and pickles Halloween party,” said Davis. 

This year, the grade level winners were first grade and fifth grade, with Kaci Lastoka's Life Skills class taking the prize in their division. 

Throughout the competition, students tracked their progress by watching their monsters move along game boards displayed in the school hallways. Davis shares that the challenge generated excitement for both students and teachers.  

 "The students were so excited to watch their monsters advance on the game board each week. It encouraged them to keep earning those puzzles. Even the teachers got in on the fun, cheering on their students and fostering some friendly competition between grades,” said Davis. 

Each week, the school broadcast updates on the morning news to keep the excitement high and to motivate students to complete as many puzzles as possible. According to Davis, the ST Math program’s visual approach to math concepts has already shown positive results.  

"Our students who regularly use ST Math are gaining a concrete, visual understanding of topics that are often abstract and confusing," she shared. "These visuals and concrete models give them foundational math skills that will benefit them throughout school and beyond." 

Beyond the Halloween celebration, Davis hopes students gain valuable life skills from their experience with ST Math.  

"ST Math is designed to make students struggle in a positive way, encouraging them to persevere and build problem-solving skills," said Davis. "I hope they continue to push through challenges and feel proud of how far they can go." 

The Halloween celebration was capped off with a visit from JiJi, the beloved ST Math mascot, who made the event even more special for students. With popcorn, pickles, and plenty of puzzles, Legacy Elementary students kicked off their ST Math journey with fun, focus, and festive fall spirit.