Olney Junior High School Students Qualify for State Level in the Texas Math and Science Coaches Association Competition

Texas Math and Science Coaches Association also known as TMSCA is an organization for coaches of the academic University Interscholastic League teams in Texas middle schools and high schools that compete in mathematics and science-related tests.

There are four events: General Mathematics, General Science, Number Sense and Calculator Applications. Mathematics entails a 50-question exam that comprises challenging word problems that students must solve in 40 minutes. The science exam has 50 questions that middle school students must answer in 40 minutes. High school students are given a 60-question exam that they must complete within a two-hour time limit. Number Sense is an 80-question exam that students must complete in 10 minutes. These students are not allowed to use a calculator or scratch paper because each calculation may be solved with a trick that makes it easier to answer. The final facet is calculator applications--an exam that contains 80 questions. Students have 30 minutes to solve, must be knowledgeable of relevant formulas and must be agile with calculators resulting in excellent speed and accuracy.

TMSCA hosts statewide competitions in addition to the qualification competition for middle school students, which occurs before the Regional Qualifier at the University of Texas in San Antonio. This year, Olney Junior High students are advancing to the Regional Qualifier competition in San Antonio. The OJHS principal Amanda Barrientes said she and the staff are proud of the accomplishments of the students. She posted a message to Facebook on the day of the competition.

A message from Amanda Barrientes, principal of Olney Junior High School

“Today was the final TMSCA Qualifying Meet in Abilene. The following students have earned the right to go and compete at the state level in the meet in San Antonio on April 27th in the following events.

Aidyn Bitner (Number Sense, Calculator, Mathematics, Science); Caleb Johnson (Number Sense, Calculator, Mathematics, Science); Joselyn Marquez (Number Sense, Calculator); Angel Alvarado (Number Sense); Desiree Englishbee (Number Sense); Gatlin Guy (Science); Florivonne Hernandez (Number Sense, Calculator); Ellie Hinson (Calculator); Peyton Valdez (Mathematics, Science); Cooper Lane (Calculator, Mathematics); Jennifer Martinez (Number Sense, Calculator, Mathematics, Science); Tavon Scrogum (Number Sense, Calculator); Richard Walp (Mathematics, Science).

Olney placed third in the meet in Abilene. We competed with schools classified from 1A-5A.

Please help us in congratulating these students. This is outstanding work and dedication.

We are so very proud of all!”