GROTON, Conn. – In late March, one of Fitch’s most rigorous academic clubs qualified for the state competition for math leagues (CSAML), the first team to achieve the honor in years.

The Math Team at Fitch began through the Eastern Connecticut Math League, a statewide organization aimed at providing high school students the opportunity to engage in advanced problem solving and competition. On March 30, Fitch mathematicians competed virtually in the state meet after qualifying on March 5. During the meet, students picked three categories of math, choosing between topics like Arithmetic and Number Theory, Algebra, and Trigonometry. After 30 minutes of solving the problems in individual rounds, the students totaled the points to determine the winners. The team round then followed, where students collaborated to solve six problems collectively, in 10 minutes. At the end of the meet, scores were calculated, Fitch being short of the mark.

The club members are filled with passion for mathematics, meeting monthly after school under the direction of Ms. Zerbarini. Around 20 members participate in the club to compete in regular Eastern Connecticut Math League (ECML) competitions throughout the year.

“I chose to advise the ECML team because I am passionate about mathematics and enjoy supporting students who are motivated to challenge themselves beyond the standard curriculum,” Zerbarini said. “It is also an opportunity for me to build connections and rapport with my students.”

The team will convene again next year, where they will compete in five meets throughout the season.