Highland Park Elementary School Student Named ‘2026 National Math Star’

Highland Park Elementary School fourth grader Tyler Lykins pictured

South Western City Schools is proud to recognize Tyler Lykins, a fourth grader at Highland Park Elementary School, who has recently been selected as a 2026 National Math Star.

The National Math Stars program, a nonprofit focused on identifying and supporting mathematically exceptional young learners identifies and supports exceptional young mathematicians across the country. For this honor, Tyler was named to their 2026 cohort of students across the country from a highly competitive pool of student applicants for his demonstrated math skills, problem-solving abilities, and academic promise.

Tyler pictured with teacher Carol Frazier,

“The 2026 cohort marks a milestone for us. The ten states we’re drawing these Stars from represent one-fourth of the second- and third-graders in America. Each year, we reach a larger share of students who possess truly exceptional math abilities,” said Ilana Walder-Biesanz, CEO of National Math Stars. “With this new cohort, we are supporting just shy of 1,000 Stars. These amazing students will shape the future of STEM research and innovation.”

Tyler Pictured with his Fourth Grade Teacher, Mr. Pearson

Read the full press release here.

As part of this honor, Tyler will receive sizable long-term academic support spanning the next 10-years. Such honors are and supports for gifted young scholars are designed to nurture the talents of students and create pathways for future opportunities in STEM fields.

South Western City Schools congratulates Tyler on this remarkable accomplishment and thank the staff and families who helped support him in pursuit of this unique opportunity!

Tyler Pictured with (from left to right) his Fourth Grade Teacher, Mr. Pearson, Third Grade Teacher, Ms. Bayer, Teacher, Ms. Frazier and HPES Principal Baker.