Minnesota Scholars of Distinction in Mathematics

Scholars of Distinction in Mathematics is one of the five areas (Science, Applied Geography, Leadership, Mathematics, and Theater Arts) of specialty approved and funded by the Minnesota Department of Education for the Scholars of Distinction program for high school students. This program is intended to encourage students to accomplish high levels of performance beyond the state standards. Recognition awards are given to students who successfully fulfill the steps of the program. Students should begin the process by completing an application form found at the site, along with:

• a certified school transcript demonstrating substantive knowledge and ability in mathematics or attain a score of at least 3 on the AP Calculus or IB exam.
• a personal statement that describes extracurricular mathematical activities and achievements and why the student is interested in the program.
• a proposal describing a mathematical problem and its context and history. The problem should be substantive and require knowledge exceeding usual high school mathematics requirements and a significant amount of effort to solve.

After approval of the proposal, the student conducts a research project intended to solve the previously described problem and uses mathematical knowledge and mathematical methods to solve the problem and communicate its solution.

High school students who are interested in pursuing this achievement may register from August to early March. The final paper is due a month later.

The application form and other information regarding the mathematics program may be found at the MN Scholars of Distinction in Mathematics site.

More general information about the Scholars of Distinction program may be found at the Scholars of Distinction webpage.