Participants come from around the region to compete in SIU’s annual Math Field Day. Photo provided.
March 17, 2026
Students from over 40 high schools competing in SIU’s Math Field Day
CARBONDALE, Ill. — High school students from across Illinois and Missouri will enjoy a day of competition and accomplishment at Southern Illinois University Carbondale’s annual Math Field Day on March 24 at the Banterra Center.
A maximum of 32 students from each school – eight from each grade – can compete in the event. Organizers anticipate scholars from about 40 Midwest schools will vie for prizes while enhancing their knowledge and expertise—and having a great time. The day also offers learning experiences and networking for teachers.
Event tests math skills
The event includes a comprehensive, competitive 2-hour exam for all participants that is designed, presented and scored by faculty from the School of Mathematical and Statistical Sciences. The testing is from 10 a.m. to noon and covers a wide range of mathematical areas, from beginning algebra and geometry through trigonometry and college algebra. A few questions venture into calculus, finite mathematics and “clever thinking.”
Winners get cash, awards
An awards ceremony is set for 2 p.m. The top two finishers in each grade will receive cash awards.
First-place winners will each earn $75, and second-prize winners will claim $50 each.
The top-scoring student teams will receive trophies or ribbons in three separate divisions, based on school enrollment size. Students can also win certificates for individual accomplishments in each academic division.
Focus on teachers, too
SIU’s School of Mathematical and Statistical Sciences will host a program for math teachers during the event as well. This portion of the Math Field Day will take place at 10 a.m. in the Roger and Sally Tedrick Auditorium, Boydston Center, Room 189, at the Banterra Center. Jeremy Alm, professor and director of the School of Mathematical and Statistical Sciences, will be the guest speaker.
For more information about Math Field Day, contact co-chairs Vina Castelli, mathematics lecturer, or Ron Nagrodski, mathematics senior lecturer, at 618-453-5302 or email Jeaniffer.carman@siu.edu.