National Math Stars

National Math Stars

What we do

Math fuels innovation and progress. It enables us to expand the frontiers of science and technology and to solve the world’s biggest challenges.

More kids from more communities have the potential to be a part of that progress – but many don’t receive the necessary support to develop their mathematical talent. The United States has no system to universally screen for extraordinary math ability. Even when talented students are identified, schools (and parents) often lack the resources to address their unique needs. National Math Stars is changing that. 

Our Awards Program works with states, districts, and schools to identify and recognize mathematically extraordinary students early (in 2nd and 3rd grade). Awards provide an exciting opportunity for schools and families to celebrate mathematical excellence. National Math Stars Awardees are also encouraged to apply to the Stars Program. 

In our Stars Program, we support Stars and their families for ten years, helping overcome barriers to reaching the frontiers of math and science. Stars gain access to advanced math opportunities, family guidance, community gatherings, and need-based funding. 

Within the Stars Program, we have two offerings: Voyager and Pathfinder. Both consist of equally extraordinary students. Voyager offers intensive mentoring, high-touch advising, and full financial support. Pathfinder provides lighter-touch advising and access to need-based funds. Admission to Voyager is based on both mathematical ability and family need, while Pathfinder does not require evidence of need.

What does it mean to expand the frontiers of math, science and technology?

Terence

Tao

Professor and mathematician. Acclaimed as the “Mozart of mathematics.” Important contributor to number theory, harmonic analysis, and more. Winner of the Fields Medal and MacArthur Fellowship

Katalin

Karikó

Biochemist and 2023 Nobel Prize winner. RNA researcher and inventor whose technology was used to develop COVID-19 vaccines. Biotech startup founder and CEO

Shirley Ann

Jackson

Theoretical physics researcher and former president of Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute. Former AT&T Bell Labs researcher on semiconductor theory. First African-American woman PhD graduate from MIT

Fei-Fei

Li

Stanford professor and artificial intelligence researcher whose ImageNet dataset spurred the rapid advance of computer vision technology. Founder of the non-profit AI4ALL

Jose

Hernandez

Electrical engineer and former NASA astronaut. Co-developer of the first full-field digital mammography imaging system, helping detect breast cancer earlier. Subject of the 2023 film "A Million Miles Away"

This year has been different, being involved and knowing my child’s needs are met. That has been so meaningful to us.

National Math Stars Parent

Are you a school?

If you’re a school or district who wants to partner with us to find and support your Stars, please see our schools page.