Fall Semester Celebration of "Pi Across America" Targets November 10th 314th Day of the Year Matches Pi's 3.14.

PHOENIX -- Pi is one of mathematics most intriguing numbers and teachers, students, parents and others are encouraged to take time out to celebrate the wonders of pi on and near November 10th, 2007, the 314th day of the year which corresponds to the first three digits of pi (3.14). This November's event marks the Fall Semester launch of "Pi Across America," an ongoing celebration of math and science literacy presented by the University of Phoenix. Information about pi, including its storied past, suggested classroom activities for K-12, reference referrals, formulas and word problems can be found at www.piacrossamerica.org. All information is free to the public.

Last March 14th (the calendar numeric of which 3:14 also matches pi) marked the inaugural launch of the Spring Semester celebration of Pi Across America. In Woodhaven, Michigan, high school students competed to see who could recite the most numbers of pi - the winner got the first 151 digits correct. In Oviedo, Florida, middle school students competed in an "edible pi" contest, shaping various foods into pi's Greek alphabet symbol, p. At many elementary schools students made "pi chains" with colored paper loops representing pi's endless sequence of digits, sang "pi songs," investigated the geometry of circles and otherwise celebrated a very magic number whose history goes back thousands of years and includes many different cultures.

"We are pleased to note that over 50,000 teachers and others visited the Pi Across America website on its debut last March 13-14," notes Bill Pepicello, president of University of Phoenix. "Math can be fun and engaging, and hopefully the resources we are providing will help educators in their vital quest to make America's students as competitive as possible in an increasingly competitive world economy."

Who:        50+ million students, from preschool to high school
What:       Math and science literacy campaign at
            www.piacrossamerica.org
Why:        Promoting math and science literacy in an increasingly
            competitive world
Where:      Across America
When:       Fall Semester on and near November 10th (314th day of the
            year)

About University of Phoenix -- presenting sponsor of Pi Across America

University of Phoenix is constantly innovating to help students balance education and life in a rapidly changing world. Through flexible schedules, challenging courses and interactive learning, students achieve personal and career aspirations without putting their lives on hold. As of May 31, 2007, 311,100 students were enrolled at University of Phoenix, the largest private university in North America. University of Phoenix serves a diverse student population, offering associates, bachelor's, master's and doctoral degree programs from more than 198 campuses and learning centers in the U.S. as well as online throughout the world.