La Jolla High School physics teacher Martin Teachworth unleashed his latest idea for coaxing the next generation to pursue worthwhile careers in math, science and engineering: stage a tournament in which teams of elementary children compete for glory and prizes. The outcome appeared promising. Teachworth reported that third, fourth and fifth graders “bounced off the roof” in excitement trying to outsmart their opponents during the first Rendezvous Engineering Mathematics Science (R.E.M.S) competition held April 28 at the La Jolla High School. “It was like going over Niagara Falls in a barrel,” Teachworth said. “It was wild, fast and exciting. It was exhausting for everyone.” Students were quizzed on topics across the sciences: “What is the name of the pivot on a seesaw?” (Answer: fulcrum) “How many protons does nitrogen have?” (Answer: seven) Teachworth hatched the idea for R.E.M.S after brainstorming with Ben Foroozan, CEO of the Rendezvous Science Center on Fay Avenue in La Jolla. The Rendezvous Science Center sponsors programs, including R.E.M.S, throughout San Diego to excite and equip students for exploring science and math. “If you don’t plant the seeds at the lower levels, by the time they get to high school, you’ve lost them,” Teachworth said. “If you don’t get them hooked by seventh grade, they probably won’t pursue a career in math, science or engineering.” The veteran physics teacher spread the word about the R.E.M.S competition to elementary schools throughout the county. Four schools sent a total of 28 teams, including La Jolla and Bird Rock Elementary. Teachworth hopes to generate more response for the next tournament, which has not yet been scheduled. Teachworth believes the competitive games also prepares students for their state standardized tests. “Kids will say, ‘This is fun,’ and ‘I want to win,’ and they’ll learn materials for the competition and will also learn them for the classroom,” Teachworth said.