We bring the excitement to math.

"As educators we recognize that our students need new methods to get them excited and engaged with academic work. This is motivational math, and once you've seen a room full of kids excited to compete, you'll understand why we built it this way. This isn't the math event you're used to. This is a unique program designed to drive engagement and success which we know can make that difference for our kids.

Practice, motivation, engagement — that's the formula, and it works. MathFest gives kids multiple levels to compete, which means more chances to succeed, more moments to feel like a winner, and more reasons to keep going. For over 19 years, we have been working to build this momentum that extends from first grade to develop systemic growth and energy for math instead of hoping it clicks later. Register your students today and let us help you build those math and success skills."

Dr. Ron Boykins

Founder & National Director, NSIA
Current Teacher · Former Principal · Former District Superintendent
College Assistant Professor · Former Military Officer

Our math improvement strategy

• Motivation before mastery — students first need a reason to want to practice; skill only follows desire.
• Practice, practice, practice — consistent daily work at the right level is what actually builds math proficiency, not one-off interventions.
• Competition as a motivator — structured competition teaches teamwork, resilience, growth mindset, and turns learning into something that feels like a game.
• Open access, no gatekeeping — no special academic requirements; MathFest is built for every student, not just the "best and brightest."
• Standards based on state standards — clearly defined MathFest Tested Skills for each grade, 1st through 8th, so practice targets the right content.
• Multiple paths to advancement — Divisional, Regional, and National levels, plus open Qualifying Events, so a single off day doesn't end a student's shot.
• Team and individual formats — students can build confidence both as solo competitors and as part of a 4–5 student problem-solving team.
• Real-world relevance — connect math to everyday skills (money, cooking, budgeting) so students see why it matters beyond the classroom.
• Word problem strategy training — explicit five-step problem-solving process (read, identify info, choose a strategy, solve, check) rather than assuming kids will figure it out.
• Family and teacher involvement at every stage — before, during, and after the competition, with concrete guidance for how parents and teachers can support practice and confidence.
• Incentivized effort, not just outcomes — reward small gains along the way (tickets, medals, trophies) to keep motivation alive between competitions.