Louisiana McGrath Math Competition Winners
NATCHITOCHES, La (press release) — Schools from across Louisiana gathered on Nov. 20 for the 24th Annual McGrath Math Competition, hosted by the Louisiana School for Math, Science and the Arts (LSMSA).
LSMSA is a tuition-free, public residential high school for high-achieving sophomores, juniors, and seniors.
The event brought middle-grade students from sixth through ninth grade to the Natchitoches campus for a full day of problem-solving, teamwork and spirited academic competition.
Organizers share that the contest welcomed students who had not yet taken Algebra II or higher courses, challenging them with individual and team tests drawn from algebra, geometry and other areas of mathematics.
Named in honor of Math and Computer Science Department Chair Dr. Mike McGrath, the competition recognized his 32 years of service to education. This year marked McGrath’s first return to the contest in several years.
David Andersen, who helped coordinate the event, said organizers continued to refine the competition each year. “This was the first time Michael McGrath returned to the contest, and although I didn’t get to talk with him about the changes we made, I believe he was pleased.”
2025 McGrath Math Competition Results
Team Test
1. Hybrid Team G
2. St. John Berchmans Team A
3. Bolton Team A
4. Green Acres Team A
5. Natchitoches Central Team A
Individual Test
1. Charles Heroman (LSU Lab)
2. James Stephenson (Bolton)
3. Khang Tran (St. John Berchmans)
4. Kit Bethard (First Baptist)
5. Kyla Gilbert (Cope)
The day was also made special by LSMSA students who volunteered to support the competition. Dr. Brad Burkman, Department Chair and Senior Lecturer of Mathematics and Computer Science, said seeing students step into leadership roles remained a highlight.
“We saw a different side of them than we do in class or office hours,” he said. “They stayed on their toes—polite, cheerful and ready to solve problems.”
Faculty, staff and administrators also played major roles. With two faculty members out, LSMSA issued a call for additional support, and volunteers stepped forward.
Three administrators dedicated significant time. Dr. Farai Mazhandu assisted with grading, and several faculty members helped with the team competition. Maintenance crews prepared the auditorium, and IT staff handled projection and technical needs.
Organizers also noted the high level of sportsmanship displayed by students. With many schools bringing multiple teams, families and teachers, competitors celebrated not only their own results but also the achievements of others.
