Junior Math Challenge Brought Students Together for a Day of Curiosity, Creativity, And Mathematical Discovery
The Hamilton-Wentworth Catholic District School Board hosted its 2026 Junior Math Challenge on Saturday, April 25, 2026, welcoming over 240 junior-division students at Bishop Ryan Catholic Secondary School.
Jointly sponsored by the Ontario English Catholic Teachers’ Association – Hamilton-Wentworth Unit and the Trustees of the Hamilton-Wentworth Catholic District School Board, this annual event invited junior-division students to take part in hands‑on, thought‑provoking mathematical activities.
The event opened with a keynote presentation from Jacob Tjahja, Program Support Officer for the Mathstronauts STEAM Engine program, who encouraged students to view math as a tool for understanding and creating, and to see their own skills as unique superpowers.
“What if the Avengers were made up of just 20 Iron Men or 20 Spider-Men?” he asked.
“They wouldn't be nearly as affected, right? What's special about the Avengers is their ability to come together as a team and use their powers in combination with each other to save the world. Although you guys might not be saving the world from any supervillains today, you're going to be doing something that is just as important, solving math problems as a team. As you encounter the problems you face today, it will be the power of working together that sets you apart from other teams. It is so important that we recognize our own individual skills while allowing others to flourish and use our powers as a team.”
Each school entered a team of six students—two each from Grades 4, 5, and 6—who rotated through five interactive math centres. Working individually, in pairs, and as a group, students engaged in activities focused on: Problem Solving, Mental Math, Number and Spatial Sense, Creative and Logic Puzzles, and Coding and Robotics Challenges.
Throughout the day, students strengthened their reasoning skills, deepened their number sense and computational fluency, enhanced their problem‑solving strategies, and explored real‑life mathematical applications.
“As a former teacher, I have seen how learning alongside peers and being challenged can build confidence and pride in learning,” said Chairperson of the Board Mr. John Valvasori.
“I also know that contests like this, similar to athletic games and arts competitions, make your adrenalin flow and your brain waves increase as you work to do your best in solving problems.”
“Through problem-solving and thoughtful inquiry, students discover that learning is not only about finding answers, but about asking good questions, thinking deeply, and growing in confidence along the way,” added Director of Education Mr. David Hansen.
“Your willingness to engage, ask questions, and challenge yourselves reflects the joy and wonder that learning can bring.”
As one of the largest and most engaging system celebration of student mathematicians to date, participants concluded the event with an awards presentation.
“Success in mathematics is not simply about accepting challenges—it is about seeking them out and working relentlessly to overcome them,” said Superintendent of Education Brian Daly.
“Today was a celebration of that ethos.”
