Bridgeport Public Schools To Host Annual Math Meet This Month

BRIDGEPORT, CT — More than 130 middle school students from across Bridgeport will compete later this month in the school district’s annual Math Meet, a long-standing academic event designed to challenge students’ problem-solving skills.

Scheduled for Thursday, May 29, the competition will take place at Sacred Heart University’s West Campus Auditorium. A total of 132 students from 22 schools are expected to participate.

Organized by Bridgeport Public Schools, the Math Meet is considered the district’s premier academic competition for students in grades 7 and 8. The event emphasizes mathematical ability, critical thinking and teamwork, according to school officials.

“The Math Meet is more than a competition—it’s a celebration of the hard work, talent and determination of our students and educators,” said Dr. Royce Avery, the district’s interim superintendent, in a statement. “This event reminds us that with the right support and opportunities, our students rise to every challenge.”

Herminio Planas, director of mathematics for the district, said the event encourages a growth mindset. “In a room full of problem solvers, we don’t just celebrate correct answers—we celebrate growth, perseverance and the shared excitement of learning together.”

The Math Meet was established in the 1980s with the goal of motivating students through academic competition and exposing them to college campuses. Originally involving 10 schools, the program has expanded to include all 22 middle schools in the district. Despite the COVID-19 pandemic, the event continued virtually, demonstrating what district leaders called a commitment to academic continuity.

Participants will work through a series of timed math problems using only pencils and four-function calculators. Scoring is based on the accuracy and difficulty of the problems, with points awarded for both individual and team performance.

The event will run from 9:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m., followed by an awards ceremony recognizing high scorers in each grade, the top three schools, and the most improved school. The first-place team will receive a championship banner that has circulated among winning schools for over 40 years.

School officials say the annual competition remains a key part of the district’s effort to promote academic excellence and student achievement.