The Iowa Department of Education has announced its new, statewide partnership with National Math Stars, a program dedicated to supporting mathematically extraordinary students. The Department identified third graders who scored in the top two percent on the mathematics Iowa Statewide Assessment of Student Progress this spring, representing all student groups.
Supports include a dedicated family advisor, free weekly math mentoring, advanced technology and educational resources, pathway exploration and counseling, STEM summer experiences, family and community events, and more. All National Math Stars have a budget that provides individualized support aligned to their learning and financial needs, which may total more than $100,000 in philanthropic support for a student.
The Department collaborated with school districts and accredited nonpublic schools with identified students. Among the 764 students eligible to apply, 709 attend public schools and 55 attend accredited nonpublic schools across the state. These young learners will receive an award and were invited to apply for the National Math Stars support program.
Out of the 764 total student nominees, more than 56 percent, or 433 families and students, applied by the June 15 deadline. The applicants, who attend 295 unique elementary schools across Iowa, will now be considered for the free, 10-year enrichment program. National Math Stars will notify the families and publicly announce all 2025 National Math Stars on August 15, 2025.
