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Wappingers students extend long‑multiplication record; district spotlights 10‑year math enrichment program
Summary
Students in the Wappingers Central School District demonstrated advanced long‑multiplication skills — working up to 384‑digit by 384‑digit problems — during a superintendent spotlight that credited a decade‑long enrichment program and named a September bid for a Guinness World Record.
A group of students recognized at the Wappingers Central School District meeting on June 16 described a multiyear math enrichment effort that culminated in extended long‑multiplication demonstrations and plans to pursue a Guinness World Record in September.
Dr. Miller, who led the presentation, told the Board of Education and the public that the students had progressed from 5‑by‑5 multiplication to working on problems as large as 384 digits by 384 digits. “Most kids in my experience can’t do 5 by 5… some of the students within the schools now… can do 18 by 18,” Dr. Miller said, and later added, “they are better than I am.”
Students who spoke in the meeting described the learning process as collaborative and iterative. One student recounted struggling with a 96‑digit by 96‑digit challenge, practicing repeatedly, then performing in front of their school and on Pi Day. Another student emphasized teamwork and perseverance as key factors in improving speed and accuracy.
Dr. Miller said the work required thought processes akin to college problem solving and that one student, identified in the presentation as Gio, coached peers during the exercises. Certificates of recognition were presented; Dr. Miller said certificates from Senator Schumer and another senator were expected to be delivered later.
Superintendent and board members joined students and staff to present a trophy and take photographs. Board President McFarland and several trustees praised the students’ achievement and thanked teachers, principals, and families for supporting the program.
The district said the next step is pursuing a Guinness World Record in September and encouraged parents to continue practice and support. No formal board action was taken on the presentation.
The spotlight combined public recognition with a brief explanation from district staff about the program’s history and instructional goals. The district identified the event as a product of sustained work across classrooms, staff, families and outside collaborators.
