Math Stars Multiply: How One Katy Family is Raising STEM Standouts at LSOA

When the Patel family chose virtual learning for their children at Lone Star Online Academy (LSOA), they hoped for a strong academic fit with room to explore interests. What they didn’t anticipate was just how far online schooling could take them.  

Today, their oldest daughter, Haripriya Patel (4th grade), and middle child, Mrityunjay Patel (3rd grade), both hold the prestigious National Math Star distinction—a rare, high‑achievement honor for mathematically extraordinary students. National Math Stars identifies exceptional promise in the early elementary years and then supports students and families for a full 10 years—pairing advanced math opportunities, advising/mentoring, community gatherings, and need‑based funding to remove barriers to STEM achievement. 

 
The family’s move to LSOA began with their oldest daughter; seeing how well she thrived, they enrolled all three children. The decision centered on the challenging academic path, and the breadth of enrichment LSOA offers inside and outside of the classroom. 

“I enjoy the routine that LSOA provides,” says Bhumi Patel. “It works well for my family, especially my kids, because they have opportunities to pursue activities specific to their interests that may not be available to children in a regular brick-and-mortar school setting.” 

With a schedule that respects focus and pace, the kids finish core work efficiently and spend the extra time diving into interests with activities such as chess club, robotics, taekwondo, and hands‑on STEM projects being regular features of their week. LSOA’s model combines live gifted and talented (GT) instruction—which offers advanced coursework, enrichment opportunities, and specialized support for students who demonstrate high academic potential—with flex classes, giving space for deeper dives into math and science while maintaining social connections. Community is woven into virtual learning as well, from a back-to-school ice cream social to weekly social time during teacher‑led sessions and online games with classmates. 

 
Haripriya’s journey started with a recommendation from her GT program, which opened the door to National Math Stars. Encouraged by her success, the family began Mrityunjay’s application in May. He earned high marks on the entrance exam, did exceptionally well in his interview, and capped the process with a successful family advisory meeting—a testament to his curiosity and love for problem-solving. With both siblings recognized, they’re now stepping into more intensive math coursework aligned to their abilities and interests, made possible by LSOA’s flexible curriculum and supportive learning environment. Their youngest sibling, Tanishi, is already exploring early math and creative play, and with such strong role models, is poised to follow in their footsteps and make the most of the opportunities LSOA provides. 

The Patel family found an environment where academic excellence and passion thrive. Could LSOA be the perfect fit for your child’s success, too? Learn more about our school today!