
In 1988, engineer Robert Sun invented the 24® Game to teach mathematics through an engaging form of play. His company, Suntex International Inc., focused on math education, partnering with the Council of the Great City Schools for “24 Challenge®” math tournaments. In 2002, Sun and company launched the web-based First In Math® Program, offering hundreds of K-8 mathematics games aligned with national standards.
Celebrating its 30th anniversary in 2018, the 24 Game enhances math skills for critical thinking, while the First In Math Program continues nurturing problem solvers, heralding a new era in math education.
The 24 Game Competition is a high-energy math tournament that inspires students to think fast, strategize smartly, and enjoy the thrill of problem-solving. Participants face off in head-to-head rounds, using mental math and logic to manipulate four numbers and reach the target number—24. This engaging event strengthens number sense, encourages creative thinking, and fosters friendly competition among peers.
Students compete in the 24 Game Competition within specific grade bands: Grades 4-5, Grade 6, and Grades 7-8. Registration is limited to the first 24 students in each band, so early sign-up is encouraged. Each district may register up to three students per grade band to represent their schools in this exciting math competition.
Please bring photo release forms for each student.
Tentative Schedule:
- 9 a.m. – Registration
- 9:15 a.m. – Introductions and Rules
- 9:30 – 9:50 a.m. – ROUND #1
- 10 – 10:20 a.m. – ROUND #2
- 10:40 – 10:55 a.m. – Semi-Finalists Announced
- 11 – 11:20 a.m. – ROUND #3 (Semi-Finals)
- 11:30 – 11:40 a.m. – Finalists Announced
- 11:45 – 11:55 a.m. – FINALS
- Noon – 12:15 p.m. – Awards Ceremony (Trophies/Certificates)
- 12:15 p.m. – Pizza Party and Departure
Register By:
April 16, 2026
24 Game Challenge:
May 14, 2026
Located at the BLaST IU 17 Williamsport Office
For more information, contact:
Shanna Haden: shaden@iu17.org
Ethan Lee: elee@iu17.org
Helpful Links:
- Tournament Rules
- More about the game: https://www.24game.com
How to play: https://www.24game.com/pages/resources
