Celebrating Mathematical Excellence From Elementary to High School

At ICS, a love for learning is paired with a deep commitment to academic rigor. This year, our students’ strong performances in internationally recognized mathematics competitions reflect both the quality of our academic program and the culture of challenge that defines learning across all divisions.

From Elementary through High School, students are encouraged to see mathematics not simply as a subject to master, but as a way of thinking, one that values logic, creativity, perseverance, and clear communication.

Competing on a Global Stage: University of Waterloo Math Competitions

ICS Middle and High School students participated in the Canadian Math Competitions, administered by the Centre for Education in Mathematics and Computing (CEMC) at the University of Waterloo. With more than 100,000 students from over 86 countries participating annually, these competitions are among the most respected mathematics assessments worldwide.

Designed to go beyond rote calculation, the contests emphasize deep reasoning, problem-solving, and the ability to communicate mathematical thinking clearly and effectively. Preparation aligns closely with classroom learning, reinforcing conceptual understanding rather than replacing it.

Students who score in the top 25% globally earn medals, an achievement that reflects both ability and sustained effort.

In the 2024–2025 school year, the following ICS students earned this distinction:

• Joshua O. (Grade 12) – recipient of multiple medals across competitions, demonstrating sustained excellence and long-term commitment to mathematical learning
   
• Seochan H. (Grade 11)
   
• Matthew T. (Grade 10)
   

Reflecting on these results, an ICS High School mathematics teacher shared:

“What makes these achievements especially meaningful is the thinking behind them. These competitions require students to reason deeply, communicate clearly, and persist through unfamiliar problems. The medals are the result of consistent effort, curiosity, and a willingness to be challenged—qualities we intentionally develop in our classrooms every day.”

These outcomes highlight not only individual achievement but also the strength of ICS’s secondary mathematics program in preparing students for advanced coursework, university-level expectations, and real-world problem solving.

Building Strong Foundations: American Math Olympiad Success

In the American Math Olympiad (AMO) 2025, 23 Elementary School students from Grades 2–5 represented ICS, approaching the competition as an opportunity to explore challenging ideas and grow in confidence as mathematical thinkers.

Their results were outstanding:

• Gold Medal: JooWon L. (Grade 3)
   
• Silver Medal: Stephane R. (Grade 4)
   
• Bronze Medal: Daniel Z. (Grade 3)
   
• Honorable Mentions:
   
  • Onyu J. (Grade 5)
     
  • Yonu J. (Grade 4)
     
  • Sana Y. (Grade 3)
     

While medals highlight outstanding results, the greatest value of these competitions at the Elementary level lies in how they shape students’ thinking. Students learn to approach unfamiliar problems with curiosity, explain their reasoning, and make connections across concepts, skills that strengthen classroom learning long after the competition ends. These experiences support the development of confident, flexible thinkers who are well-prepared for the increasingly rigorous mathematical learning that lies ahead.

A Culture of Challenge and Growth

From Elementary through High School, ICS fosters a culture where students are encouraged to stretch their thinking, ask deeper questions, and apply learning in meaningful ways. Participation in international competitions is one expression of this culture, where high expectations are paired with thoughtful support, and where excellence is pursued alongside care for each student’s growth and well-being.

We are proud of our students for their dedication and achievements, and grateful to our teachers for guiding them with expertise, encouragement, and integrity. Together, they demonstrate that ICS students are well-prepared to compete and thrive on the world stage.