Byron-Bergen’s defending interscholastic mathematics champions have topped their division for the third year in a row. Led by veteran coach, math teacher Jon DiLaura, the Bees won three out of four competitions against seven other schools.
“At the start of the year, we didn’t know how it would all go since we had a couple really amazing seniors that graduated last year,” said co-captain Zoey Shepard. “We realized after the first couple competitions that we really needed to step up our game. We heard rumors that other schools were practicing nearly every day.”
Byron-Bergen found themselves in second place after two of the four competitions. According to the captains, the turning point for the season came when Coach DiLaura had to unexpectedly miss the third competition.
“After finding out that (DiLaura) would be unable to take us to the competition, we became desperate to win in his honor,” said co-captain Elli Schelemanow.
“This was significant because in (the previous) competition, another team had outscored us and taken our first-place spot,” said co-captain Dayanara Caballero. “Upon learning that Mr. DiLaura wouldn’t be able to be there with us, there was a big shift on the team. Everyone’s focus and drive multiplied. This time, we weren’t just competing for ourselves, we were also competing to prove to Mr. DiLaura that there was nothing to worry about. The team had the talent and we put the work in to see it through.”
“We all had to truly focus and practice outside of school,” said co-captain Maddie Pimm. “When we won, it really showed how talented we all are when we focus. This was when I realized another championship was most definitely possible, if we all continued to work hard.”
The math competitions take place over a series of rounds. The competitors solve math questions in advanced topics such as logarithms, trigonometry, systems of equations, and matrices. The test results are tabulated based on a point system. The Byron-Bergen team completed the season with a total of 526 points. The next highest team finished with 496 points.
“Our team is so strong because of the students’ commitment to excellence,” said DiLaura. “These students give up their lunch time to attend practice, eat together and study the topics for the next competition. This extra effort is what separates us from the other schools along with an incredible group of teachers that give our students a strong base in mathematics starting in the elementary school.”
The four co-captains will all compete at the State competition later this month.
“This will be my second year at the State competition and I’m excited to compete with my co-captains and friends,” said Schelemanow. “Being able to grow as a student and a leader throughout these past years has been wonderful.”
The captains are all studying hard to prepare for States, including working with former rivals from other teams, to present a strong contingent from the GLOW region.
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