Wayside: STP has a team that will be competing in the M^3 Challenge next month. Seniors Ben Rosbury and Juan Franco and Junior Amie Chen have formed a team, with Lori Plummer as their coach.
On the morning of Saturday, February 27, a challenge problem is posted, and students have until Sunday, February 28, to complete it. Students will have 14 hours from the time they download the problem to work they have to upload their solution. They cannot get help from anyone outside their group.
The problem they are given will be real-world research and application-based, challenging students to work through and write up solutions in paper form. Last year’s problem, for example, required teams to create mathematical models to quantify and consider the total costs, expected earnings, and lifestyle factors resulting from a college education, comparing the earning potential of various career paths.
The top six winning teams receive scholarship awards from $5000-$20,000, divided equally among members. Semi-finalists and honorable mention winners also receive money.
Our team and their coach is really excited about this competition. Starting next week, Mrs. Plummer will be meeting with the group after school weekly to prepare them.
The M^3 Challenge website has posted many previous problems and guides for practice.
Feel free to check it out, and keep your fingers Crossed for STP!