In celebration of International Kangaroo Math Day, fourteen Harbor Country Day School students took part in a world wide Mathematics Competition, last Thursday. On March 17, 2016, fifty Countries around the world participated in the Kangaroo Math Day competition. The number students in this second year, of Harbor Country Day School’s involvement, has doubled, ranging from first graders to eighth graders.
“At Harbor Country Day, we believe it’s important to present our students with opportunities that not only challenge them, but inspire them as well… We find that a little healthy competition, such as the Kangaroo Math Day, addresses both sides of the coin. The children love the challenge of the exam, and they are inspired to represent themselves and their school to the best of their abilities.” – John Cissel, Harbor Country Day School’s Head of School
The International Kangaroo Math Day competition is an annual worldwide event, taking place on the third Thursday in March. Students in grades first through twelfth grade receive the same questions in more than 50 countries, prepared by the International Committee. On the same day, Students competing are tested on mathematical concepts from logic, mental flexibility and pattern predictions to reasoning, critical thinking and problem-solving.
“The program fits our philosophy at Harbor because of the emphasis on critical thinking and problem-solving. And, of course, with the significance of mathematics in today’s world, we’re thrilled to see so many of our students getting excited about a math competition.” -John Cissel, Harbor Country Day School’s Head of School
The inception of the Kangaroo Math Day competition, began in Australia during the 80’s. The mission to encourage and improve the study of mathematics by way of reward and relation. Students were presented with math problems which they could relate to and rewarded for their efforts. The exam grew popular in Europe, where it was named “Kangaroo” in homage to its Australian origins. In 1998, the competition made its way to the United States. In 2014, 16,749 American students participated in the competition; in 2015, that number increased by 20% to 21,059.
About Harbor Country Day School
Founded in 1958 by conscientious parents, Harbor Country Day School is an independent, co-educational day school for children from preschool through 8th grade situated in St. James’ Village of Head of the Harbor. The school employs a whole-child approach to education, wherein its rigorous curriculum is supported by a broad program in its academic, athletic, advisory, and visual and performing arts departments designed to develop all aspects of each child’s talents and interests. Harbor Country Day School’s summer camp program, Camp Harbor, is among the leading summer camp programs on Long Island. The school’s mission to “cherish childhood, cultivate wonder, and inspire confident learners and leaders” underscores every child’s experience at Harbor Country Day School and ensures that all of its graduates are prepared to lead fulfilling lives filled with wonder, confidence, and many successes.
Harbor Country Day School is chartered by the New York State Board of Regents and is accredited by and a member of the New York State Association of Independent Schools (NYSAIS). It is a non-sectarian, nonprofit organization under section 501(c) (3) of the IRS Code governed by a self-perpetuating board of trustees. For more information, visit www.hcdsny.org.