Middletown Student Wins National Math Award

MIDDLETOWN, CT — A Middletown middle school student has been named a winner of a national math award.

Lucas Rivera, an eighth-grade student at Woodrow Wilson Middle School, was recently named a winner of the 14th Annual 180 Student Awards, a national award program organized by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt that recognizes 15 students across the country for their progress in literacy and math achievement.

Lucas was nominated by his teacher, Jodi DiMauro, for his remarkable achievements and progress in mathematics while using MATH 180.

MATH 180 uses a blend of “teacher-led instruction and adaptive technology to personalize student instruction and accelerate growth,” according to a news release.

Lucas previously struggled with both mindset and comprehension in math class.

“Since starting MATH 180, he has seen considerable improvement in both,” the news release states. “In addition to consistent Quantile growth, he now sees the value of math in school and life, with a focus on pushing through adversity and asking for help when he needs it.

Lucas said, “I know that math is all around me and it is important to understand the concepts.”

Winning students will each receive a grand prize of a $500 Amazon Gift Card and winning educators will receive a classroom library, a $50 Amazon Gift Card, and will be invited to partner at future HMH sponsored events. Nominators of Student and Educator Winners will also receive a classroom library to inspire lifelong readers.

“We’re proud to recognize the accomplishments of this year’s student and educator 180 Awards winners, who demonstrate what’s possible when teachers are motivated, students are supported, and both have access to the right technology and curriculum,” said Matthew Mugo Fields, general manager, supplemental and intervention solutions at HMH. “Especially in a year that has presented significant and unfamiliar challenges for teachers and students, we are honored to share their stories and amplify their accomplishments.”