Addition, subtraction, multiplication, and division all simple mathematical operations. However, when combined these operations can create complex problems found in Algebra, Geometry, Calculus, and many other forms of math.

At Woodland, the students who dedicate their time to solving these complex mathematical equations are often are referred to as Matheletes, or members of the Math Team.

This year, approximately 20 students have decided to participate on the math team. Similar to the Quiz Bowl, the Math Team meets to have practices and the following day competes in math competitions against other schools in surrounding areas. During the 2013-2014 school year the team will be holding a total of four practices and competing in four meets, one of which has already taken place.

At these math practices students are given packets of math equations that they will be tested on at the following math meet. They have the ability to choose to wok by themselves or with partners and are able to get help on any problems they do not understand.

In order to keep the matheletes motivated and informed about what is happening, Salma Shitia, has been named the team leader for this year.

“Salma is a leader on our team. She has the most experience, a unique way of solving problems, confidence in her math ability and the spunk to get the other members excited and pumped to compete,” said Math Team Co-advisor, Mary Hrenko.

This is Hrenko’s first year leading the Matheletes, with help from Co-Advisor Craig Skiegan

“The team needed a replacement for Mrs. Keisel,” said Hrenko. “And I thought my enthusiasm and passion for mathematics would be a great addition to what Mr. Skigen already had in place.”

While the advisers obviously want the members to improve on their ability to solve problems and learn mathematical skills, these are not the only goals the team has. They also hope that students will learn other characteristics and traits that they can apply to all aspects of their individual lives.

“Teamwork, confidence, hard work, techniques to solve problems in all areas of their life, and the ability to make an academic area fun [are all things we want students to learn through this experience],” said Hrenko.

The math team is all about learning and enjoying new experiences. There is no requirements that a student must meet in order to be on the math team. The team is open to any and every student who has a passion for math. The most important characteristic of any math team member is their commitment.

“Commitment [is important],” said Hrenko. “Commitment to attend to the practices and meets. Commitment to their teammates. Commitment to do their best.”

Although the math team has only competed in one meet so far this season, Hrenko is excited to see where the team will go from here.

“We are proud of how our team did this year in the first meet. We are a very inexperienced team that is just getting our feet wet,” said Hrenko. “We now have some experience and drive to do better in the next meet. I can’t wait to see the improvement!”