Twelve sixth graders from Staley Upper Elementary School showed off their science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM) skills by winning their grade division at the 2017 DimensionU Department of Defense Math Games Tuesday at the Griffiss Institute.

The Staley students, made up of Abigail Bates, Jacob Cosentino, Santino Campanaro, Gwen Caro, Cooper Engelbert, Collin Gannon, Caden Giardino, Micah Humphreys, Richard LaTour, Collin Mummert, Jacob Premo and Jacob Swavely, took first place in two out of three Mixed Grade Division categories.

The Staley squad went up against three other teams from around the country. Teachers Courtney Huf and Dorothea Iselo led the Rome students.

The other participating schools were All Saints Academy, N.J, Alston Middle School, S.C., and Gregg Middle School, S.C.

DimensionU Games is funded through the National Defense Education Program and produced by DimensionU, according to an event announcement.

The math gaming tool enhances students’ skills in grades three to nine, the announcement added. To be successful at the game, the students must solve math problems to move to the next phase.

The National Defense Education Program funds the Air Force Research Laboratory STEM Outreach Program, and all teams are affiliated with a branch of the military.