Tipp City Schools student named National Math Star

Tipp City Schools is proud to announce that a 4th-grade student at L.T. Ball Intermediate School has been selected for the 2025 cohort of National Math Stars. Jonah McClain is one of only 102 students nationwide to be awarded this honor. This prestigious program recognizes exceptional young math talent across multiple states. 

When he learned he was named a National Math Star, Jonah said he was “excited and happy.” 

He shared that he enjoys all math but feels especially confident in multiplication and word problems. He recalls his passion for math beginning in first grade with his teacher, Mr. Grant Brown, when he thrived on the challenge of math competitions. “You could earn prizes in first grade if you did the best, and I would always try to get first place.” 

As a National Math Star, Jonah will embark on a transformative ten-year journey. This program, valued at over $ 100,000, will provide him with mentorship, enrichment, and academic support. More importantly, it will equip him with the skills and opportunities to accelerate his education and pursue advanced opportunities in STEM, profoundly shaping his future. 

Jonah’s mother, Katie Kaney, is filled with pride in her son’s achievement. “As a family, we have always encouraged our boys to continue learning outside of the classroom, and I think National Math Stars will open a world of opportunities to do so. I am grateful for the additional support and guidance in Jonah’s education and interests.” 

Being selected as a National Math Star is an incredible honor. Gifted Intervention Specialist Trina Penn-Blubaugh said, “The application process for the parents is very involved, and the selection process is highly competitive.” 

Each year, thousands of 2nd- and 3rd-grade students are nominated. She added, “This recognition not only highlights his hard work and talent but also opens the door to opportunities that will enrich his academic journey for years to come.” 

As a National Math Star, Jonah will receive life-changing opportunities that include: 

• long-term support through high school, at no cost to the family 

• weekly one-on-one math mentoring or collaborative sessions with a math mentor for deep problem solving and new concept exploration. 

• advanced coursework opportunities. 

• mathematics development with customized pacing and content to challenge and inspire at the student’s level. 

• STEM enrichment materials, resources, and summer experiences. 

• Invitations to math competitions and summer camps to explore new STEM concepts. 

• STEM pathways based on student interests, such as computer science or research. 

• year-round financial assistance for STEM opportunities chosen by the family. 

• annual family budget for enrichment like robotics clubs, chess lessons, museum memberships, and more. 

• a welcome pack that includes technology, supplies, and books to ensure access to virtual courses and resources. 

• a dedicated family advisor providing continuous support, monthly check-ins, and personalized planning. 

• college and career guidance that includes high school internships, events, and top-tier college counseling to prepare for post-secondary success. 

The full magnitude of this extraordinary honor may not yet fully resonate with Jonah. However, he eagerly shared that he’s most excited about traveling to Houston, Texas, for the welcome kick-off. He is looking forward to staying in hotels, “getting to go to places on my own without my brothers, meeting new friends, and flying on a plane.” 

Jonah’s mother hopes this program challenges him and keeps him excited about learning, and that the “experiences in National Math Stars help guide him over the years and push him to explore his interests and pursue his goals.” 

Behind Jonah’s success is a network of support and encouragement from his family, teachers, and Tipp City Schools. His mother praised the role of his dedicated teachers, saying, “He has had amazing teachers who have helped him develop through the years and worked with his competitive nature to keep him motivated to succeed.” 

While Jonah aspires to use the program to earn college scholarships, he also has grand dreams for his future. “I want to be an NFL football player and nose guard for the defense.”