January 14, 2025

Important Updates

Our Year in Review

Read about the highlights, accomplishments, and milestones from the past year in our Annual Report.

Read IMSA's Annual Report

Explore More Math!

All levels of mathematicians are encouraged to join.

Mu Alpha Theta

Mu Alpha Theta (MAθ) sponsors Math Circles, a program for students who want to deepen their mathematical knowledge in unique and interesting areas. 


In each circle, students explore topics not typically covered in the standard curriculum, such as Vector Applications in linear algebra. They encourage critical thinking, creativity, and teamwork, building valuable skills across all study areas. It’s a great way for students to strengthen their mathematical intuition, connect with like-minded peers, and improve their mathematical skills. 


Participating in Math Circles is greatly rewarding for students. It helps them learn mathematics better and improves their ability in competitive math.

Apply Here

STEM For All Ages

IMSA's Center for Teaching and Learning provides STEM education for students across the state. They are currently offering several virtual opportunities and Saturday STEM programming for downstate students.


There are still a few spots available for these programs. Feel free to pass along this information to Illinois students who may be interested!

Virtual STEM Programming (Grades 6-9)
Saturday STEM - Metro East (Grades 1-2 and 6-8)

PowerSchool Data Breach

PowerSchool, the vendor providing IMSA’s Student Information System, announced that they experienced a nationwide data breach. IMSA was one of many schools affected by this breach. 


Here is the latest update from PowerSchool regarding the breach. As a reminder, IMSA does not store any payment information or social security numbers in PowerSchool, so that data was not compromised.


To view the original communication regarding the breach, or to access resources about the data breach on the ITS webpage, please use the links below.

View the Original Email
ITS Webpage
Spotlights and Good News
Shrikar Dulam '25

Student Spotlight



Congratulations to Shrikar Dulam '25, who was recognized as a Regeneron Science Talent Search Scholar for his project "Analyzing Quantum Exceptional Point Invisibility for Experimentally Realizable Triple-Gaussian Potentials." Regeneron Science Talent Search is the nation’s oldest and most prestigious science and math competition for high school seniors.


Shrikar was one of 300 exceptional high school seniors selected from nearly 2,500 applicants worldwide. Scholars are chosen based on their outstanding research, leadership skills, community involvement, commitment to academics, creativity in asking scientific questions, and exceptional promise as STEM leaders.

Staff Spotlight


Congratulations to Dr. Katie Berger, Chief Student Affairs Officer, on successfully defending her dissertation, “The Impact of Self-Management Programming on Gifted Student Perceptions of Sleep in a Residential Setting.”


Dr. Berger earned her Doctor of Education degree from Northeastern University.

Titan Athletics

Congratulations to the IMSA/Yorkville Swim Team for an incredible performance at the Blackhawk Invite last weekend! Varsity claimed first place, while JV earned a strong second, competing against some tough rivals. 

Upcoming Events

A Celebration of

Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.

"Overcoming Alienation and Empowering Our Voices"


Tuesday, January 21

3:00 p.m.

Main Gym


Student attendance is mandatory. Fob access to the halls will be shut off prior to the event start time and will not resume until the end of the assembly. Classes will follow the afternoon assembly schedule, which can be found here.

How to Feel Like You’re Enough

Overcoming Perfectionism and Embracing Self-Acceptance


Friday, January 17, 2025

12:00 p.m.

Horowitz Conference Room

Are you constantly stressing over assignments or comparing yourself to others? Join us to listen to Dr. Laurie Santos (Yale University) and Dr. Ellen Hendriksen (clinical psychologist) as they discuss how perfectionism can hold us back and share strategies for overcoming self-criticism in their podcast episode from The Happiness Lab.


Key Takeaways:

  • Let go of unrealistic expectations
  • Stop comparing and start accepting yourself
  • Build confidence and a healthier mindset


Don’t miss out on this empowering event to help you feel more confident and empowered—just as you are!

The HBCU Experience


Wednesday, February 5, 2025

4:30 p.m. - 5:30 p.m.

IRC


Join Dr. Anita White and other graduates of historically black colleges and universities (HBCUs) as they share their experiences and advice.

Learn More
Message from the President

Seeking Summer Internships


Intersession has been a great opportunity to expose students to experiences with professionals and experiences in new destinations. We want students to see their learning in authentic contexts and environments that help them understand what's possible for their futures.


We also desire to create these experiences over the summer in communities across the state. Support from families is necessary to make our opportunities robust. Please reach out to me (eglazer@imsa.edu) if your professional work environment can host an IMSA student or recent IMSA grad as an intern for approximately four weeks. The experience should focus on mentoring opportunities, ideally on a challenging project, and can be in-person or hybrid. Thanks for making experiential opportunities possible for IMSA students.

News from PAC

Lunar Culture Show Donations

The Asian Students in America Club (ASIA) is seeking parent volunteers to support their upcoming Lunar New Year Cultural Show at the end of the month. If you're interested in helping or contributing food, please sign up using the link below.

Food Donations
Volunteer Sign Up
Monetary Donations
Your Guide to Support
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Fitness Center Hours During Intersession


The Fitness Center will be open during Intersession from 2:30 p.m. - 5:30 p.m. Regular hours will resume on January 21, 2025.

Text Link

Counseling Services Presents

Triston's Tips and Tricks

Managing Seasonal Mood Changes

It's common for people to notice changes in their mood during the fall and winter months. The shorter days and reduced sunlight can lead to fatigue, disrupted sleep schedules, and a lower mood. Here are some tips to try and manage our seasonal mood changes:

  • Get outside when you can – When the sun does come out, take advantage of it! Even on cloudy days, outside light can be helpful. If it is too cold to go outside, try to open your blinds and get some outside light into your room when it is available.
  • Try to establish a sleep routineWith shorter days and early sunsets, our bodies think it is time to go to bed earlier. This can throw off our sleep schedule. Getting back into a routine can help adjust to the changes of the seasons.
  • Talk to someoneTalk to someone you trust. Others may be going through something similar. It can be helpful to talk with someone and have someone possibly help you through difficult times.
In Case You Missed It

Intersession Schedule


Monday through Thursday

  • 9:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m.
  • 1:00 p.m. - 2:00 p.m. (Lecture Series)
  • 2:20 p.m. - 4:20 p.m.


Fridays

  • 9:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m.
  • 1:00 p.m. - 3:00 p.m.


During these times, all students will remain in the main academic building and will not be in their residence halls. Students participating in a virtual intersession with their SIR will be assigned a room in the main building, where a faculty member will supervise them. Students will have access to their residence halls from 12:00 p.m. to 1:00 p.m. for lunch.

Winter Health and Safety Reminders

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Cold Weather Attire

As a reminder, according to the student-parent handbook, students must have their arms, legs, and feet covered when outdoor temperatures are below 32 degrees. Blankets may not be used in the Main Building. Shoes must be worn at all times, except in the student's room. Students should also consider wearing a hat, gloves, and a scarf when walking between the halls and the Main Building.

Illness Prevention

Illinois has seen an increase in illnesses over the last few weeks. For ways to reduce your chances of developing these winter illnesses, consider these tips:


  1. Eat a balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains, and stay hydrated.
  2. Wash your hands frequently and avoid touching your face.
  3. Don't share personal items that can't be properly disinfected.
  4. Vaccinate: Get a flu and COVID-19 vaccine.
  5. Dress in layers and remember to wear a hat and gloves.
  6. Aim for 7-8 hours of sleep to support immune function.
  7. Exercise regularly to strengthen immunity.
  8. Avoid crowds and stay home if you're sick to reduce exposure.
  9. Wear a mask if you are sick or are near someone else who is sick. 
  10. Use a HEPA air purifier to reduce viruses and bacteria in the air. 



Titan Tuesday Archive

If you ever need to refer back to a previous Titan Tuesday, visit the Titan Tuesday Archive.

Calendar

January 6 - 18 - Intersession

January 20 - Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Day (Academy is closed, but halls are open)

January 21 - MLK Assembly (Special Schedule)

February 10 - 14 - Clash of the Halls

February 15 - Family Day


View 12-Month Calendar

What else should we include?


Please email the Office of Public Affairs at officeofpublicaffairs@imsa.edu

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Titan Tuesday

Illinois Mathematics and Science Academy

1500 Sullivan Road, Aurora, IL 60506-1000

630.907.5000 |  imsa.edu

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Notice of Nondiscrimination: IMSA prohibits sex discrimination in any education program or activity that it operates. Individuals may report concerns or questions to the Title IX Coordinator.