2+2=?

I am living proof that all Asians aren't good at Math. I never lived up to that particular Asian stereotype. I never liked Math, and never excelled at it. If anything, Language Arts has always been my strong suit, and I have my SAT and GRE scores to prove it.

My son Austin is a different story. He is quite the mathematician (and his Language Arts skills aren't too shabby either). A few days ago, we received a letter from Austin's school stating that he had been picked to participate in the first ever Mental Math Showdown for 4th graders. Each teacher picked their top five math students based on class performance and scores from the California Standards Test. A total of 26 students took part in the "showdown".

The kids were so nervous, but who could blame them? Their fellow classmates, teachers and parents were all watching. As several rounds of questions were completed, the number of students on stage dwindled down to six.

Austin was up next, but was told his answer was incorrect.

Some of us in the audience were pretty certain his answer was correct, so one of the parents went to tell the Math coach. After some deliberation, they realized they had made a mistake. Much to his relief, he was called back on stage.  Woo hoo!

Down to the final 3.

 

When all was said and done, Austin placed 3rd, and I couldn't be prouder. 

Way to go Austin!
And way to keep the Asian stereotype alive and kickin'! ;)