The Department invited 764 mathematically extraordinary Iowa 3rd graders to apply to this comprehensive national support program
The Iowa Department of Education today announced its new, statewide partnership with National Math Stars, a program dedicated to supporting mathematically extraordinary students. The Department identified third graders who scored in the top 2% on the mathematics Iowa Statewide Assessment of Student Progress this spring, representing all student groups.
“Following the enactment of Governor Reynolds’ comprehensive Math Counts Act, we are proud to be the first state in the nation to provide mathematically extraordinary students the opportunity to receive these transformational supports,” said Iowa Department of Education Director McKenzie Snow. “Through this groundbreaking partnership, Iowa’s National Math Stars will start as rising fourth graders in a fully funded program tailored to their strengths and interests through twelfth grade.”
Supports include a dedicated family advisor, free weekly math mentoring, advanced technology and educational resources, pathway exploration and counseling, STEM summer experiences, family and community events, and more. All National Math Stars have a budget that provides individualized support aligned to their learning and financial needs, which may total more than $100,000 in philanthropic support for a student.
"We're thrilled to partner with the Iowa Department of Education to recognize and support the state's extraordinary young mathematicians,” said National Math Stars Founder and CEO Ilana Walder-Biesanz. “While we've worked at the school district level in other regions, Iowa's visionary choice to collaborate with us statewide ensures no high-scoring third-grader is overlooked. We hope this will serve as a model for the nation, as we expand National Math Stars' reach."
The Department collaborated with school districts and accredited nonpublic schools with identified students. Among the 764 students eligible to apply, 709 attend public schools and 55 attend accredited nonpublic schools across the state. These young learners will receive an award and were invited to apply for the National Math Stars support program.
Out of the 764 total student nominees, more than 56%, or 433 families and students, applied by the June 15 deadline. The applicants, who attend 295 unique elementary schools across Iowa, will now be considered for the free, 10-year enrichment program. National Math Stars will notify the families and publicly announce all 2025 National Math Stars on Aug. 15, 2025.
More information about National Math Stars is available at www.nationalmathstars.org.
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About National Math Stars
Founded in 2023, National Math Stars is a nonprofit dedicated to ensuring mathematically extraordinary students from all communities have the resources they need to reach the frontiers of math and science. Beginning in 2nd or 3rd grade, students and their families receive long-term advising and support through high school to help develop their talents. Over this time, students can receive up to $100,000+ in resources and guidance. Learn more at www.nationalmathstars.org.