Published On: December 15th, 2019By

New Mathematics National Honor Society Chapter Starts at MacArthur High School

This is the first MNHS chapter to open in the Aldine Independent School District.


This year, MacArthur High School earned a charter to open a chapter of Mu Alpha Theta Mathematics National Honor Society (MNHS). The goal of Mu Alpha Theta is to recognize high achieving mathematics students and to inspire keen interest in mathematics, develop strong scholarship in the subject, and promote the enjoyment of mathematics.

To be eligible for induction, students meet specific requirements, including maintaining an A-GPA in mathematics. Additionally, students must take part in at least one math-related activity outside of standard coursework. Those activities may include UIL Math Team, Math Club, summer programs, or participation in competitions. Applications are voted on by a panel of math teachers and selected official member officers to determine admittance.

On Thursday, December 12, the Big Red chapter of Mu Alpha Theta inducted its first 30 members. Stephanie Benítez, Nilo Peralta, Adán Ramírez, Esteban Echevearría, and Jésus Ramos, who comprise the five official member officers, led the induction ceremony. Candidates received their membership certificates and took the oath to accept the challenge of the honor society.

Following induction, students were recognized for their achievements. All five of the current officers have passed the AP® Calculus AB exam with a score of 3 or higher. One student, Stephanie Benítez, is one of two students in Aldine ISD who received a 5 on that exam. Jacob Hands also earned recognition. He placed first in the mathematics section at the Scholastic level of the District Academic Decathlon Contest in November.

Mr. Park Van, a math teacher at MacArthur HS and chapter sponsor, lauded the students’ passion for the school and community. According to Van, this is the first MNHS chapter in the Aldine Independent School District.

“The students made it happen,” said Van. “It was their dream to charter the organization this school year. They hope that the MacArthur NMHS will help improve our STEM field programs and increase the number of students taking higher math and science classes as well as serve as an opportunity to recognize their achievements in those areas.”

The campus Mu Alpha Theta would not be possible if not for the support of Syeda Zuma, the math department chair, the entire campus Math Department, and the school administration. 

About the Author: Leticia Fehling

Director of Internal Communications