Education Rainbow Challenge (ERC) will hold its annual math and science challenge from 8:00 a.m. – 1:00 p.m at Sam Houston High School.  Over 400 grades 3-5 students from across HISD are expected to participate in hands-on science experiments and compete in individual and team math tests. For information, please contact cecil.fong@gmail.com.

Founded in 1998, ERC is a non-profit organization formed with the specific objective of improving the math and science skills of at-risk students in the early grades (3rd through 5th grades) . Gifted and talented students are not eligible to participate as the contests are geared for average students only.

“The Rainbow Math Challenge is something we look forward to each year.  For many students, this is their first exposure to math contests and chemistry experiments, and it  brings to life the skills they learn in their classrooms”, said HISD Assistant Superintendent, Lance Menster.

This event also provides parents with the opportunity to obtain information to help their children to be the best learners they can be. The parent sessions will include information about the use of PS Connect, a visit to the mobile College Go Center, information on student health services, information tables highlighting the various magnet programs available to middle school and high school students, and more.

“This is a great way for Houston area companies and volunteers to give back to the community and help develop much needed math and science skills for the next generation. It is a very motivating to see the excitement of the students, the appreciation from the parents and teachers, and the passion and dedication of the volunteers”, said Cecil Fong, ERC President.

Major partners of ERC include American Chemical Society, National Association of Asian American Professionals, Rice University, University of Houston, and University of St. Thomas. Major sponsors over the years have included CenterPoint Energy, ConocoPhillips, Deloitte, Exxon, Hess Energy, Pariveda Solutions, Shell. Besides financial support, sponsors also provide over 100 volunteers required to organize and plan each event.

If you are interested in volunteering, please use link below: