NC State Elks Scholarship Supports Wayne County High School Math Competition
On Monday, October 5, 2026, local high schools of Wayne County, the NC State Elks Scholarship, the Wayne County Fair, the Foundation of Wayne Community College, and the Wayne Community College Mathematics Department proudly sponsored the annual Wayne County Fair High School Math Competition.
The event brought energy, excitement, and community spirit to the Wayne County Fair while showcasing the mathematical talent, teamwork, and perseverance of local high school students.
Students Put Their Math Skills to the Test
Teams of two students competed in a game show-style contest modeled after WRAL’s Brain Game. Students were challenged in two rounds. The first focused on Math Trivia and Mental Math, while the second emphasized Mathematical Calculations.
Questions covered algebra, geometry, probability, statistics, and trigonometry. Without the use of calculators, students had to rely on quick reasoning, teamwork, and critical-thinking skills to succeed.
Congratulations to all of the students who participated and represented their schools!
Division I Results
Place | School | Student Team Members |
1st | Wayne School of Engineering | Fadl Alhursmi & Robert Wilson |
2nd | Goldsboro High School | JahQuell Artis & XaRyah Jenkins |
3rd | Wayne Early/Middle College High School | Valeria Castaneda & Easton Vinson |
4th | Charles B. Aycock High School | Dashon Hairston & Josslyn Snyder |
5th | Eastern Wayne High School | Ezekiel Roberson & Jackson Rowe |
Division II Results
Place | School | Student Team Members |
1st | Wayne School of Technical Arts | Antony Jobson & Connor Rubio |
2nd | Wayne Country Day School | Sally Coates & Anna Sauls |
3rd | Spring Creek High School | Alexis Dietz & Briana Duruttya |
4th | Southern Wayne High School | Axel Marcano & Linzey Yeoman |
5th | Rosewood High School | Xylea Howell & Jamai Norman |
Winner vs. Winner Championship
In the highly anticipated finale, Division I Champion Wayne School of Engineering faced Division II Champion Wayne School of Technical Arts.
After a thrilling contest, Wayne School of Technical Arts emerged victorious, earning the title of 2026 Wayne County High School Mathematics Competition Champion!
Prizes and Scholarships
Thanks to the support of the NC State Elks Scholarship, Wayne County Fair, and Foundation of Wayne Community College, contestants received cash prizes and scholarships.
Place | NC State Elks Scholarship | Wayne County Fair | WCC Foundation Scholarship |
1st | $65 cash | $10 cash | $500 scholarship |
2nd | $35 cash | $7.50 cash | $250 scholarship |
3rd | $25 cash | $5 cash | $125 scholarship |
4th | $12.50 cash | $2.50 cash | $75 scholarship |
5th | $5 cash | — | $50 scholarship |
The NC State Elks Scholarship also made it possible for each first-place school—Wayne School of Engineering and Wayne School of Technical Arts—to receive a 2026 First Place Team Wayne County Public School High School Math Competition award plaque to proudly display at their school.
In addition, each first-place school will receive a $130 check to hold a celebration in honor of its team's achievement.
Memorable Moments
The competition was fierce, and every student displayed resilience, skill, and determination. Each team demonstrated impressive preparation while representing its school and community.
The Pavilion atmosphere added to the excitement, with spectators cheering on contestants throughout the competition. First-time competitors also posted impressive results, demonstrating that newcomers can make a big impact.
Perhaps most impressive was the camaraderie among the teams. Students encouraged one another and celebrated the accomplishments of their fellow competitors, making the event a true community celebration of mathematics.
Special Recognition
A successful event like this requires the support of many people and organizations. Special thanks go to:
Mr. Rob Best and the NC State Elks Scholarship for sponsoring prizes.
The Foundation of Wayne Community College for providing scholarships for participants.
Upsilon Chi Chapter of Phi Theta Kappa for providing WCC Cancer shirts for the divisional winners.
Katie Holloman and Elizabeth King for their expert organization of the competition.
Andrew Bass for coordinating participants.
The high school teacher sponsors for selecting and preparing their teams.
The outstanding student competitors for their enthusiasm, preparation, and teamwork.
The WCC Mathematics Faculty for testing, assisting, and supporting the contest.
The WCC IT Team for providing audio/visual support throughout the event.
Looking Ahead to 2027
This year's competition continued to grow, with exciting additions such as the Winner vs. Winner finale quickly becoming a favorite tradition.
As the event continues to evolve, organizers are already exploring new ways to make the 2027 competition even more engaging through fresh question formats, interactive rounds, and expanded community involvement.
Congratulations to Wayne School of Technical Arts, all of this year's winners, and every student who competed!
We look forward to seeing even more students showcase their mathematical talent at the Wayne County Fair in 2027.
Submitted by Katie Holloman and Elizabeth King
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