Staff Report /

### William McKinley Student Wins Global Math Championship

Indianapolis Public Schools celebrated a remarkable moment for one of its students during their ongoing "12 Days of IPS" recognition series. Sixth-grader Ileana Mora-Gomez from William McKinley School 39 made history when she became the Learn Fresh NBA Math Hoops Global Champion in New York City.

Ileana triumphed in the prestigious global math competition, impressing judges and peers alike with her lightning-fast calculations and exceptional math skills. The NBA Math Hoops program integrates basketball-themed challenges with math problems, while also focusing on social-emotional learning for students in grades 4-8. Thanks to support from the Pacers Foundation, Lilly Foundation, and the NBA, this program encourages students, especially girls and students of color, to explore careers in STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, and Mathematics).

Ileana’s journey included several unforgettable highlights:

- **June 25**: Enjoying iconic New York City desserts like cannoli and cookies from Carlo’s Bakery.

- **June 26**: Competing in the tournament's major rounds, drafting teams, and even attending the NBA Draft at the Barclays Center.

- **June 27**: Exploring sports analytics at Syracuse University and celebrating success at the official awards ceremony.

- **June 28**: Taking home the championship title during an intense final round.

The recognition didn’t stop there—Jacob Gregory, Ileana’s sixth-grade math teacher, was named one of three 2024 Learn Fresh Outstanding Educators. Notably, Gregory is the only educator in Indiana to receive this honor.

The IPS community and partners continue to shine a light on student achievement and dedication to STEAM initiatives through programs like NBA Math Hoops. Congratulations to Ileana on her incredible achievement and to Jacob Gregory for his outstanding contributions to education.

#12DaysofIPS #NBAHoops #MathChampions #TeamIPS #LearnFresh #STEAM #PacersFoundation

Source: Indianapolis Public Schools

Source Type: Schools

Source Location:

Syracuse, NY

https://www.facebook.com/961687822660810/posts/987266873436238

Ongoing Snowfall Alerts Issued for Local Areas

Ongoing snowfall across multiple locations; conditions expected to gradually improve later.

Genesee Elementary School Spelling Bee Champion Crowned

Belmiro Vieira wins Genesee Elementary School Spelling Bee; finalists advance to district finals.

Binghamton Under Winter Weather and Wind Advisories

Binghamton faces winter weather and wind advisories; varied snow accumulations expected across regions.

CBA Albany, Schuylerville Set for Championship Clash

CBA Albany and Schuylerville face off in State Championship; Albany Firebirds offer best wishes.

Quebec Street Closure for Safety Improvement Project

Quebec Street will close for improvements, reopening weekends; detours via Monaco and Syracuse.

CBA Football Team Advances to Championship Game

Albany County Executive congratulates CBA football team on semifinal victory, advancing to championship.

Syracuse Stage Streams "Cinderella" Episode Now

"Syracuse On Stage" episode features insights on "Cinderella," live performances from Nov 22-Jan 5.

Syracuse University Department of Public Safety Accredited

Syracuse University Department of Public Safety earns advanced CALEA accreditation for campus safety.

Syracuse Crunch Hosts Hockey Fights Cancer Event

Syracuse Crunch's "Hockey Fights Cancer" event on November 30 invites name submissions for tribute.