Lakeview Academy Brings the Madness to Math with “Multiplication Madness”

At Lakeview Academy, March doesn’t just mean basketball. It means math, competition, and a whole lot of excitement.

This year, students are diving into “Multiplication Madness,” a schoolwide initiative that turns foundational math skills into a high-energy, bracket-style tournament inspired by March Madness. Designed by instructional coach Joshua Prentice, the event blends academic rigor with school spirit in a way that’s engaging students across grade levels.

What Is Multiplication Madness?

Multiplication Madness is exactly what it sounds like: a fast-paced, competitive math tournament where students face off using their knowledge of multiplication facts.

Modeled after the NCAA bracket system, the competition features:

• Bracket-style matchups displayed throughout the school

• Cross-grade competition (third, fourth, and fifth graders competing together)

• Timed rounds focused on speed and accuracy

• A championship showdown before spring break

  
  

Students compete in teams carefully designed to reflect a range of skill levels—from those mastering basic facts to those who have already built strong fluency.

Building Teams That Challenge Every Learner

One of the most thoughtful aspects of Multiplication Madness is how teams are formed.

Teachers intentionally create balanced teams. This structure ensures that every student participates, contributes, and grows while also keeping the competition fair and engaging.

Even more exciting? Grade level doesn’t guarantee victory.

“We’ve had fourth grade teams beat fifth grade teams, it just depends on how fast they get it,” Prentice shared.

A Schoolwide Event That Builds Momentum

Multiplication Madness isn’t a one-day event, but unfolds throughout the month, building anticipation with each round. And for the grand finale, the championship will be broadcast schoolwide, allowing students and teachers to tune in and cheer on their classmates.

Of course, no championship would be complete without rewards.

Winning teams can look forward to custom championship t-shirts, a celebratory pizza party, and schoolwide recognition. But beyond the prizes, the real win is the growth students experience.

Why It Matters

Multiplication fluency is a critical building block for future math success. By turning practice into competition, Lakeview Academy is helping students develop speed and accuracy, build confidence in math, collaborate with peers, as well as experiencing the joy of learning in a new way.

A New Tradition in the Making

From buzzing hallways filled with bracket updates to classrooms energized by friendly competition, Multiplication Madness has quickly become a highlight of the school year.

And if the excitement is any indication, this may just be the beginning of a new Lakeview Academy tradition.

Because at Lakeview, even math can bring a little March Madness.