Twin Peaks wins engineering competition at Metro State University

For the second year in a row, Twin Peaks Charter Academy (TPCA) won the STEM engineering competition at Metro State University (MSU) Math Day.

The goal of the event is to encourage interest in math and science, while fostering constructive competition among area high schools. Many schools from throughout the Front Range participate, and each can bring up to three teams. Students compete in three subjects: geometry, engineering and algebra.

In the geometry competition, teams of students work together to solve as many geometry problems as possible in 45 minutes. In the algebra competition, students work together to solve twenty timed algebra problems. These are not simple problems - Brad Carsten, TPCA math teacher, described many of the geometry and algebra problems as very challenging.

Finally, in this year’s engineering competition, students were provided with materials to transport a piece of clay as close as possible to a given spot on an adjoining table. The TPCA team chose to create a zip line mechanism rather than a catapult or throwing device. The team’s knowledge of engineering and efficient planning was essential because, as they explained, “There wasn’t enough of anything so we really had to plan how to use our limited supplies.”

“This is just one example of many activities that our students are engaged in, and I credit their teachers and the rigorous education we provide to prepare them for these unique events,” Joseph Mehsling, the newly established Director of TCPA, said.

The entire team of students and teachers are already looking forward to next year’s competition.