Four of Minnesota’s top middle school math students traveled to Washington, D.C. in May, to represent the state at the 2025 RTX MATHCOUNTS National Competition.
The team included Ahmed Ilyasov (Valley View Edina), Will Masanz (St. Paul Academy & Summit), Anshdeep Singh (Kellogg), and Branden Qiao (Wayzata East), led by Coach Meg Schlukebier from Valley View Middle School in Edina.
Their trip kicked off with excited pin trading, a cherished tradition that let the students meet mathletes from across the country and even around the globe. The team enjoyed the festive spirit and made new friends as they prepared for the big event.
On competition day, the Minnesota team tackled the challenging written round, bringing their best problem-solving skills to a national stage. Afterward, they made the most of their time in D.C., clocking over eight miles on foot while sightseeing. Highlights included visiting landmarks like the Washington Monument, where they took in breathtaking city views from the top.
Coach Schlukebier shared how proud she was of the team’s dedication both in competition and during their explorations. Participating in the National MATHCOUNTS Competition was a memorable honor for Minnesota’s team—combining the thrill of competition, discovery, and forming lasting connections with fellow math enthusiasts.
