From sponge squeezes to shot put

USCA students energize middle school math camp

USCA School of Education students, faculty and alumni teamed up with Leavelle McCampbell Middle School on April 1 for Metric Math Olympics, during LMMS’ Enrichment Week.  

Dr. Devone McKie, LMMS assistant principal and USCA alumnus, collaborated with Dr. Bridget Coleman, SoE professor, and her students to plan hands-on activities for LMMS and Langley-Bath-Clearwater middle schoolers during the event’s Math Camp.  

“The partnership with University of South Carolina Aiken played a major role in the success of our Level Up Math Camp,” McKie said.  

“The college students provided extra support, encouragement, and positive mentorship to our students throughout the camp. It also gave our students exposure to college opportunities and helped make learning more engaging.” 

Elliott Hendricks, a secondary math education major, led several engaging activities, which included measurements and a lot of fun: javelin straw throw, paper plate discus, sphere marbles grab, and cotton ball shot put. The fan favorite was Hendricks’ sponge squeezing competition to determine which middle schooler could squeeze the most water from the sponge.  

“Elliott Hendricks’ involvement added tremendous value through his mathematics expertise and support of both students and staff,” McKie said. 

“His involvement helped strengthen the instructional activities and made the experience even more meaningful for our students.” 

Other USCA alumni who now teach at LMMS and LBC assisted with the event, including Kali Paczynski, Kayla McPhee, Bryan Hadden and Jalisa McKevie-Daniels.   

“Overall, the collaboration created a positive learning experience that benefited everyone involved,” McKie said. 

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