Pythagorean Theorem Trigonometry Proof Is Not Impossible for Calcea Johnson and Ne’Kiya Jackson

As we continue to observe Teacher Appreciation Week, I came across a fascinating story that I had to share, which shows the influence of just how much students can excel with the encouragement from a teacher who cares and can help to change their lives.

Students, Calcea Johnson and Ne’Kiya Jackson from St. Mary’s Academy in New Orleans, Louisiana stepped up to a challenge presented by their Mathematics teacher, Michelle Williams (Advanced Math, Algebra II, & Calculus) of what seemed impossible. This high school teacher didn’t really expect a solution when she presented a 2,000-year-old Pythagorean Theorem problem to her class. St. Mary’s Academy of New Orleans aims to raise the bar of expectation for all of its students and not lower the ceiling.

Image Source: YouTube

It’s always been assumed that any alleged proof of Pythagoras’s Theorem based on trigonometry must be circular. But Calcea and Ne’Kiya took what was thought to be impossible and turned it into a great mathematical achievement. The pair recently presented their findings at the American Mathematical Society’s Annual Southeastern Conference.

This is an excellent example of how kids can excel with a little encouragement and support from a teacher who can change their lives. Please check out this interview with Bill Whitaker from CBS’ 60 Minutes. Outstanding job ladies.