The competition welcomes students in grades six through nine who have not yet taken Algebra II or higher mathematics courses to compete in both individual and team portions. Exercises are drawn from algebra, geometry, and other areas of mathematics, with questions designed to challenge students to think logically and synthesize a range of concepts. Schools may enter an unlimited number of students for the individual test; however, only 12 students may participate in the team competition.  

The McGrath Math Competition is named in honor of longtime LSMSA Math and Computer Science Department Chair Dr. Mike McGrath, in recognition of his 32 years of service to education. 

The competition comes as LSMSA celebrates its standing in the newly released 2027 Niche.com rankings. LSMSA's faculty was named #1 Best Public High School Teachers in America. The school also ranked #26 of 904 Best Magnet High Schools and #53 of 20,664 Best Public High Schools nationally, and it maintained an overall grade of A+.

In Louisiana, LSMSA claimed the top spot in multiple categories:

#1 of 335 - Best Public High Schools in Louisiana

#1 of 321 - Best Public High Schools Teachers in Louisiana

#1 of 109 - Best High Schools for STEM in Louisiana

#1 of 13 - Best Magnet High Schools in Louisiana

LSMSA faculty are required to hold a master's degree or higher in the subjects they teach. Eighty-five percent hold a Ph.D., M.F.A. or other terminal degree in their field.
  

The Louisiana School for Math, Science, and the Arts (LSMSA) is a tuition-free, public high school for high-achieving sophomores, juniors, and seniors with a nominal room and board fee to cover housing, meals, and campus activities. The LSMSA Foundation offers assistance for families so that no eligible student is denied the school’s 43-year legacy of a college-level living/learning experience. 

Applications for Fall 2027 are open. Learn more and apply at www.LSMSA.edu.