Ruckel Middle School is proud to announce that eighth-grade student Dean Penberthy has been named a statewide winner in the Math Nation Show What You Know Showdown, a Florida competition designed to encourage students in grades 6–8, Geometry, Algebra 1, and Algebra 2 to strengthen their math skills through practice and perseverance. Dean earned a perfect score of 10/10 on the Unit 14 Test Yourself! assessment, qualifying for the statewide raffle and winning an ice cream party for his entire class, courtesy of Math Nation. The Show What You Know Showdown ran from April 6 through May 1, encouraging students across Florida to practice math and improve their scores in a fun, engaging way.
“Dean has worked incredibly hard all year and has shown real commitment,” stated Susie Watson, Dean’s Honors Algebra teacher. “I’m so proud of him and excited that his effort is recognized statewide.”
Principal Joe Jannazo stated, “Dean represents the best of us: grit, curiosity, and pride. We are proud of his accomplishment and grateful to Math Nation for recognizing our students’ dedication.”
Superintendent Marcus Chambers praised both Dean’s determination and the support provided by his teacher. “Dean’s achievement is a reflection of the hard work and perseverance he has demonstrated throughout the school year, along with the dedication and encouragement of outstanding teachers like Mrs. Watson,” Chambers said. “This statewide recognition is something the entire Ruckel Middle School community can be proud of.”
(Pictured above, L to R: Assistant Principal Lucretia Waskow, Principal Joe Jannazo, Dean Penberthy, Mrs. Susie Watson, and Shane Duncan with Accelerate Learning, Inc./Math Nation)