HMS takes third in state math competition Published March 20, 2008 By Airman 1st Class Rachel Kocin 49th Fighter Wing Public Affairs HOLLOMAN AIR FORCE BASE, N.M. -- Holloman Middle School recently hosted a math competition called Math Counts. Math Counts is a national organization for middle school students in sixth through eighth grade. The team is composed of four HMS students and the contest is compromised of several competitions which are regional, state and finally, the national competition. The competition is held annually with the competition cycle beginning in February and continuing through March. Although parents of the students are constantly being transferred from base to base due to military obligations, this is the first time the school has students returning to the team two years in a row. The school recently participated in the regional and state competitions in the southwestern chapter. During these competitions, the school competed against six other schools and placed third in both competitions. One student from HMS excelled in a few areas in each of the two competitions. "The competition was fun and challenging, but we couldn't have done it without our coaches," said Andy Haug, a 7th grade participant. The contest at HMS is facilitated by teachers Ms. Linda Pehr and Mr. Kerry Miyoshi. The students normally start after-school practice in September and continue through March, however, the students have decided to continue practicing in preparation for next years competitions. "We have a strong team this year that is very dedicated. It is always nice to work with students that are so interested in math," Ms. Pehr said. "This competition is really testing our knowledge, we worked hard and I feel that we really deserve the place we received," said Ashley Henderson, a 7th grade participant. "Since nationals are close by, we are hoping to get through nationals and go on to the final competition," said Ms. Pehr.