High School Seniors Crack Age-Old Math Challenge with Innovative Proof

Two students from New Orleans overcome historical barriers to solve a 2,000-year-old trigonometry puzzle, sparking global recognition.

Calcea Johnson and Ne'Kiya Jackson developed a new trigonometric proof for the Pythagorean Theorem, previously deemed impossible.
Their groundbreaking work earned them accolades, including praise from Michelle Obama and keys to the city of New Orleans.
St. Mary's Academy, where they studied, fosters high expectations and has supported numerous barrier-breaking graduates.
The students presented their proof at an American Mathematical Society conference, receiving acclaim for their ingenuity.
Despite their success in mathematics, both students have chosen different career paths, underscoring their diverse interests and abilities.