Spring ISD is celebrating two exceptional young mathematicians after one student earned a coveted spot as a National Math Star and another was honored as a state finalist in the highly competitive program.
Khanh Nguyen, a student at Burchett Elementary School, has been named one of just 50 students nationwide selected for the prestigious National Math Stars program. He will receive 10 years of fully funded math enrichment, including weekly one-on-one mentoring, advanced coursework opportunities, STEM enrichment materials, and summer camps valued at more than $100,000.
Nevaeh Bell, a student at Lewis Elementary School, was also recognized as a finalist this summer, placing her among the top 200 young math scholars in Texas out of more than 4,500 applicants.
“Out of thousands of potential students to choose from, having two of our own scholars reach this stage speaks to the brilliance of our scholars, the support of their families, and the dedication of our educators,” said Spring ISD Interim Superintendent Dr. Kregg Cuellar. “Khanh and Nevaeh represent the heart of our mission: nurturing talent, building confidence, and unlocking potential. Their achievement is a powerful reminder of what’s possible when students are supported, encouraged, and challenged to shine.”
Spring ISD’s Advanced Academics department nominated 98 second- and third-grade students for the National Math Stars program earlier this year. Each nominee received a medal and an official invitation to apply.
“We’re incredibly proud of Khanh and Nevaeh for representing Spring ISD at such a high level,” said Amy Ellingson, Spring ISD Director of Advanced Academics. “We look forward to hearing the final results next month and continuing to support all our students in developing their talents.”
At Burchett, staff and classmates are celebrating Khanh’s accomplishment as a source of pride and inspiration.
“I am elated that the world is going to get to see Khanh in the light that we see him for 187 days here in Bobcat Country,” Principal Na’Carol Dixon Hall said. “This speaks to the fact that we put all of our emphasis on every student, every teacher, every day in Spring ISD. He is the definition of ‘we win as a team’, the way we grow and foster him. It’s the same thing that we do for all of our students.”
As the news spread through Burchett Elementary, no one was more excited than Khanh himself. With a big smile and the same curiosity that sets him apart in the classroom, he shared what the honor means to him.
“It feels amazing because I work really hard,” he said. “I want to discover new things, and being a Math Star student will help me.”
At Lewis, educators describe Nevaeh as a leader in the classroom whose curiosity, perseverance, and love for learning set her apart.
“Her eagerness to learn, coupled with her ability to explain her thinking to peers, makes her a true leader in the classroom,” said Grace Leal, principal of Lewis Elementary School. “Her work ethic, attention to detail, and intrinsic motivation set her apart as a standout student.”
As a National Math Star, Khanh will now embark on a 10-year journey of enrichment designed to accelerate his learning and expand his opportunities in STEM.