Pencils were moving, minds were working, and students were ready for a challenge! On November 5, the Mother Lode Fairgrounds was filled with young problem-solvers taking part in the 2026 Tuolumne County Math Bowl.
Hosted by the Tuolumne County Superintendent of Schools (TCSOS), the event brought together 55 seventh- and eighth-grade students from six local schools.
Students competed in teams and on their own. They solved tough math problems, shared ideas, and put their skills to the test. Each correct answer brought them closer to victory.
A Finish That Came Down to Seconds
After all the scores were added up, Belleview Elementary and Sonora Elementary were tied for first place!
To break the tie, the teams faced one final math problem. Belleview answered correctly just seconds ahead of Sonora, winning the 2026 Tuolumne County Math Bowl Championship.
It was a thrilling end to a day full of hard work and teamwork.
“It was exciting to watch these students tackle challenging problems, work together, and really push themselves throughout the competition,” said Rob Egger, Deputy Superintendent of Educational Services at TCSOS. “The championship tiebreaker was an incredible finish, but what stood out most was the determination and enthusiasm every student brought to the event.”
Celebrating Our Winners
Congratulations to Belleview Elementary’s Team 1 and coach Robert Sharkey for taking home the championship!
Sonora Elementary’s Team 9, coached by Jennifer Arthur, earned second place. Twain Harte Elementary’s Team 7 and Belleview Elementary’s Team 2 tied for third.
In the individual competition, Luke Sigler earned first place, with several other students receiving ribbons for their strong performances.
Individual Competition Results
- First Place: Luke Sigler
- Second Place (Tie): Jacob Kuiken, Conan Mager, Paul Castro, and Carson Canida
- Third Place (Tie): Callaway Pradenas, Kieran Hodges, Emma Arthur, Trevor McDonald, Cash Mutchler, Michael Harrington, Enrico Cocco, Rafael Hsu, Romi Calleros, Francis Siemmons, Vada Banks, and Hannah Johnson
Team Competition Results
- First Place (Tie): Belleview Elementary Team 1, Curtis Creek Elementary Team 4, and Twain Harte Elementary Team 7
- Second Place (Tie): Soulsbyville Elementary Team 5 and Sonora Elementary Team 9
- Third Place (Tie): Belleview Elementary Team 2, Sonora Elementary Teams 8 and 10, and Columbia Elementary Team 11
More Than Math
Math Bowl isn’t just about winning. It’s about trying new things, solving problems, and learning from others.
Students from Belleview, Columbia, Curtis Creek, Sonora, Soulsbyville, and Twain Harte elementary schools showed what they could accomplish with hard work and teamwork.
A special thank-you goes to the teachers and coaches who helped students prepare: Robert Sharkey, Emily Reynolds, Nicholas McManus, Hormoz Williams, Jennifer Arthur, Sonja Kivley, and Mary Lindsley.
Congratulations to all 55 students who took part!
Every problem was a challenge. Every answer was a chance to shine. And this year, every second counted!