The Iowa Department of Education has announced a first-in-the-nation statewide partnership with National Math Stars to support mathematically gifted students. The department invited 764 third-graders who scored in the top 2% statewide to apply for a fully funded, 10-year enrichment program. The initiative, launched after the Math Counts Act, offers selected students weekly mentoring, advanced resources, STEM experiences and individualized support. Over 56% of eligible students applied by the June 15 deadline, with recipients to be announced on Aug. 15. Officials say the program aims to ensure no high-achieving student is overlooked and could serve as a model for other states.