Doing the math - Mann Elementary Math Club shines with support from Tesla STEM mentors

The Math Club at Mann Elementary has seen exceptional growth this year, with increasing student participation and a culture of curiosity, challenge and success. This was made possible by a collaboration with Alpha Math, a student-led organization founded by Ryan Chhabra, with key mentors including Tyler Chen, Ihita Gupta, Ishaan Kothari, and Chinmayi Buddhavarapu, all from Tesla STEM High School.

Together, the Alpha Math team mentors more than 100 students weekly through enrichment programs offered at Mann Elementary and in partnership with the Gifted Education Advisory Council (GEAC). Their sessions focus on problem-solving strategies, mathematical thinking and fostering a love of learning.

The results have been inspiring. This spring, both the 4th and 5th grade teams from Mann Elementary earned awards at the highly competitive Math is Cool Masters competition. In addition, many students received individual honors in national contests like Noetic Math and Math Kangaroo.

To celebrate these achievements, the Math Club hosted a Math Award Ceremony and Math Night, bringing students, families and mentors together to recognize the hard work and enthusiasm that have made this year such a success.

Alpha Math, as a fiscally sponsored project of Junior Asha, also supports math education initiatives for foster children in India. Thanks to the dedication of high school mentors, enthusiastic volunteers and the continued support from Mann Elementary staff and families, the Math Club is helping young learners grow not just as mathematicians, but as confident thinkers and future leaders.