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First In Math News & Notes Vice President of Suntex International
Inc., ST. LOUIS, MO—Barbara Asteak, Vice President of Suntex International Inc., presented the First In Math® Online Program to members of the National Mathematics Advisory Panel in September. The panel will be making recommendations on supplementary programs to President Bush and Secretary of Education Margaret Spelling later this year. Asteak began her remarks by quoting Albert Einstein, who believed that “Games are the most elevated form of investigation.” "As the developer of the innovative 24® Game, we are committed to supporting and enhancing math education," Asteak told the panel. "Five years ago, we combined our successful 24® Game series with the power of internet technology to create the First In Math® Online Program—a program with a proven track record of improving math skills and raising overall test scores." "It was an honor to speak in front of the National Mathematics Advisory Panel," says Asteak, from her Easton, PA office. "It is my sincere hope that EVERY student will someday have access to this wonderful program, which not only helps students develop an enthusiasm for learning, but fosters a belief in their ability to succeed."
Barbara Asteak, Vice President, Suntex International
Inc. New York Elementary School Scores Two First-Place Rankings CORONA, NY—PS16Q is home to the #1 Second Grade Team and the #1 Third Grade Team in the FIrst In Math® Online Program in the state of New York. A gala awards ceremony was held Monday, June 25 at the Queens County school to recognize faculty and students on both teams. Barbara Asteak, Vice President of Suntex International Inc., was on hand to present awards.
Math Regional Instructional Support Specialist Brigitte Belletiere with Harvey and Amy. "Congratulations to all of the students who participated in the First In Math® Program—you are all winners!" shouted Asteak as she rallied the crowd. During the ceremony, two individual players were singled out for #1 status: Harvey is the top-ranked second-grader in NY, and holds the rank of #8 nationally; Amy is the top-ranked third-grader in NY—but also ranks #1 ALL GRADES in the state. Each player received a 24® Game gold medal, lanyard, keychain and special 24® Game hat. "The students were genuinely happy for each other, which is great to see" says Suntex representative Nancy Kane, who helped organize the event. "That spirit of 'friendly competition' is part of what First In Math® is about. Overall, it was a nice, warm atmosphere in the auditorium—students even made a large "PS16 Award Ceremony" sign that was hanging in the background." Team Leader of "oswego6ny," Karen Moroney recieved an acrylic Team Leader plaque, as did "diesel2ny" Team Leader Margaret O’Conner. Assistant Principal Elaine Iodice attended the ceremony, but had to leave early, so Math Coach Dedra Barke accepted a lovely wooden plaque on behalf of the school. Math Regional Instructional Support Specialist Brigitte Belletiere helped hand out prizes. "It's great to see our kids get this kind of recognition for academic excellence," said Barke. Mingo County School District Teams Experience MATEWAN, WV—Matewan Middle School’s 28-member First In Math® online team, “Roar35WV,” was recognized for outstanding achievement at an April 25 Award Ceremony. The sixth-grade team is currently ranked #1—all grades—among the 112 active teams in West Virginia. "All eight of the schools’ teams have, on average, outperformed other schools in the state," says First In Math® representative Brock Estes. The middle school is listed as the #1 West Virginia school in the FIM National Rankings; six of their teams are in the Top Ten. "Matewan's success is amazing, because they did not begin using the program until February," adds Estes. Many schools begin the program in late August or early September. Currently, Matewan hovers near the National Top 100. Special recognition was given to the #1 player in West Virginia—4th-grader Josh Dean. Dean, who has earned nearly 19,000 stickers so far, attends Gilbert Elementary School. His parents made the one-hour-plus trip with him to attend the ceremony.
Fourth-grader Josh Dean is the #1 player in West Virginia. Josh is congratulated by his parents, Bill and Joy, and 24® Game inventor Robert Sun. "The Mingo County School District has taken the ball and run with it, so to speak," says Robert Sun, inventor of the 24® game and the First In Math® Online Program, who attended the ceremony to congratulate students and present them with medals and prizes. "Many of their elementary and middle schools are doing exceptionally well in their first year in the program." "Roar" Team Leader Brenda Davis received an elegant acrylic award, while Principal Ivadeen Hatfield and Assistant Principal Beth Keatley accepted a large plaque on behalf of the school. Math Specialist Teresa Jones, Director of Instruction Deborah Harris and Dr. Dee Cockrille, Administrative Assistant to the Superintendent, attended the awards ceremony. Philadelphia Students Rally to Surpass PHILADELPHIA, PA—"I am very proud and excited to report that Anne Frank Elementary students have surpassed the 1,000,000-sticker mark in the First In Math® program," announced School Based Math Teacher Leader Denise Montell. A mere six days after the announcement, Anne Frank students were already more than 32,000 stickers past that goal. "As you can imagine, it is sometimes hard to motivate students at this time of year," says Montell. "But they really enjoy First In Math®, and we also gave out some of those colorful FIM wristbands as incentives to rally the troops, so to speak. I knew they could do it—they're a great group of young people!" Principal Ellen Cooper declared that students earned the opportunity to wear jeans to school instead of their regular school uniforms. "We actually polled our students and asked them what they would like as a reward if they were able to reach one million stickers. 'Wearing jeans' was what they wanted most," she smiled. In addition, students got to play against the staff in a basketball game.
"On June 8th, our students wore their jeans to school and we played our basketball game—which I am proud to say the teachers won," says Montell. "I would like to acknowledge Mr. Jason Nash, third grade teacher for Team 'Muscle' (more than 123,000 stickers) and Mrs. Candice Smith, fifth grade teacher for Team 'Airship' (more than 117,000 stickers). Those two classes contributed nearly one-quarter of a million stickers to our school's total. Without their dedication, we could not have met our goal." Currently, only three other schools in the nation have exceeded the One Million mark, all are middle schools: Wilson Middle School, located near Anne Frank in the School District of Philadelphia's Northeast Region; Conwell Middle School, located in the district's Central East Region and Solon City Schools' Orchard Middle School in Solon, Ohio, who tops the list with 1,731,274 stickers as of June 11. Anne Frank is the only elementary school in the nation to exceed the One Million sticker milestone. Fitler Academics Plus Students Celebrate at Exciting PHILADELPHIA, PA—The tiny, makeshift assembly room at Fitler Academics Plus was filled to capacity as the school hosted a spirited First In Math® celebration on June 7. Located in the School District of Philadelphia's Northwest Region, the small school is currently ranked #9 in Pennsylvania in the national online math program.
Back row, l to r: Principal Willette Jones; FIM Ambassador Cred Dobson; Linda Grobman; Stephen Spence and Jackie Greene. Front row, l to r: 8th-grader Tiara Swain; 7th-graders Kyle Anderson and Gus Jenkins. "We finished about 87th last year, and this year we are 9th," beamed Principal Willette Jones. "I think that speaks to our very dedicated staff, and our wonderful, enthusiastic students." Principal Jones, Regional Superintendent Linda Grobman and Curriculum Director Jackie Greene joined Director of School Support Services Stephen Spence and First In Math® creator Robert Sun in presenting certificates to teachers and awards to students. "This is the first school that I am aware of, where ALL 296 participating students—grades three through eight—demonstrated mastery of their addition, subtraction, multiplication and division facts through completion of the Add/Subtract and Mutiply/Divide Gyms," explains Sun. "Some of us have been calling it a 'GYM blackout' because they completely wiped out those two modules!" Fitler's top five players each received 24® Game Gold and Silver Medals. The top five players on each team received First In Math® lanyards, and all students received FIM bracelets. Computer Science Teacher John Renfro, Dean of Students Walter Hopewell and School-Based Teacher Leader Christina Sosangelis all received special acrylic plaques. Principal Jones accepted a large wooden plaque on behalf of the school.
"No matter what age you are, at Fitler it's cool to be smart," according to Fitler Gifted Teacher Denise Goodman. Students in 8th grade through 3rd grade proudly posed for photos after the awards ceremony. The North Philadelphia school is no stranger to good publicity, and was recently featured as "School of the Week" in The Learning Key, an educational supplement to The Philadelphia Tribune that is distributed to all schools within the district. Easton Area School District Honored for Achievement EASTON, PA—The unusually hot day seemed almost fitting, as tiny Francis A. March Elementary school's Team "Audio60PA" is on fire, and currently the #1 fourth grade Team in the nation! The team was singled out for special recognition during a June 1 First In Math® awards ceremony held at the school. The team is also currently ranked #8 among ALL grades nationally.
Team Leader David Matthews strikes a proud pose with some of his fabulous fourth-graders. "It is wonderful to be able to recognize students and educators from a local team!" says Suntex International Vice President Nan Ronis. Suntex, founded in 1988 by 24® Game inventor Robert Sun, is based in Easton. Sun also attended the event, and praised the school for their dedication to excellence. Team Leader David Mathews received an engraved acrylic plaque, while Principal Judith Steinberg was presented with a large commemorative plaque for the school. Retiring District Technology Integration Specialist, David McCormick, also received a special acrylic plaque. Amy Ashton, PTA member and mother of one of the students on the team, arranged to purchase gold medals for all of the team's members, who also received lanyards and keychains from Suntex.
David McCormick and Principal Judith Steinberg show off the school's award. Iowa Schools Battle, End Up First and
Second In State CRESTON, IA—Competitiveness between the two schools was fierce, but during the last hour of play, Creston Middle School's team edged out St. Benedict's team by less than 10 points per student to win the first-ever state-wide First in Math® online competition. Creston’s lone 18-member online team, “Tempo2IA,” was recognized May 9 at a First in Math® Award Ceremony after capturing the #1 spot among 72 Iowa teams in the program. The team is currently ranked 12th in the nation. Principal Larry Otten accepted a handsome plaque and a $500 award for the school from Suntex International, creator of the national mathematics program. FIM Team Leader Lauris Heinzel received an acrylic plaque. St. Benedict School's teams were honored at a First in Math® Award Ceremony May 8th at the school in Decorah, Iowa. Seventh grade team “Yacht74IA” finished second in Iowa, and is currently 13th in the nation. St. Benedict School is also home to the #1 player in Iowa, Erin Voss, who also currently ranks 37th in the nation. Erin received an Apple iPod MP3 player, plus a 24® Game T-shirt and hat. Associate Superintendent Alice Conlon congratulated Principal Ruth Palmer and math teacher Patty Lien, FIM Team Leader, as the top 8 players in Iowa are all from St. Benedict School.
Erin Voss, (front row, left) with her "Top 8 in Iowa" classsmates. "The two rival teams want to plan a video conference to meet each other," according to Tony Morrow, First in Math® representative. “I have never seen so many lead changes between two schools in any other state in all my years with the program, it was thrilling.” Barbara Asteak, representing Robert Sun, inventor of the 24® game and the First In Math® program, congratulated students at both schools and presented them with medals and prizes. Photo courtesy of St. Benedict School East Ramapo Central School District
Honored CHESTNUT RIDGE, NY—"The biggest competition in East Ramapo Central School District is not based upon who has the latest 'hot' sneaker or pair of jeans," explains District Math Coordinator Terry Goldfischer. "It is how many stickers they have earned so far, and who has ranked higher than whom in each classroom. Thanks to the First in Math® program, students in East Ramapo Central School District realize the power of mathematics."
Left to right: Top players Ryan Watson and Oliver Levy pose for pictures. Terry Goldfischer and Florence Manoff receive Team Leader awards from Robert Sun. East Ramapo Central School District students and educators were recognized for state and national achievement in the First In Math® Online Program at a stirring awards ceremony held at Fleetwood Elementary School on May 7. Eldorado Elementary School's fifth-grade Team "River55NY" was awarded an elegant wooden plaque as the # 1 Team in the state of New York. Their teacher, Mr. Heilbronn, also received a "Team Leader" award. Special recognition was given to two Fleetwood Elementary School players who rank the Top 25 nationally. Ryan Watson is currently the #7-ranked first grade player, while schoolmate Oliver Levy holds the #25 spot among third-graders. Each were each presented with a gold medal, 24® game hat, keychain and lanyard. First In Math® program creator Robert Sun traveled to the district-wide assembly to present special awards and medals. "I am very impressed with what I see here," says Sun, who created the online math program to help students employ technology to become critical thinkers and problem solvers. "The students are amazing, and I am so proud of them. But I am also impressed with the amount of support and encouragement they have received from the teachers and administrators throughout this district." "Every teacher I talked to today knew what level a particular student was at, what areas of the site students were most challenged by, or what seemed easy for them. That level of involvement speaks volumes to me," explains Sun. District Math Coordinators Florence Manoff and Terry Goldfischer received awards, as did Pierre Gay, Instructional Technology Supervisor. Assistant Superintendent of Elementary Education Dr. Linda Alvarez-Cruz attended the ceremony, as did Principals from the ten area schools who were honored with Certificates of Excellence. Number One Player in Nation Kept Unusual Goal in Mind Stoughton, WI—Pennsylvania-based Inventor Robert Sun had no choice but to journey cross-country to a small school in Dane County, Wisconsin. Fifth-grader Hannah Sonsalla made sure of that. In attaining the #1 spot in the nation in the First In Math® Online Program, Hannah realized one of her goals—to bring Sun to Sandhill School and meet him face-to-face.
Left to right: Robert Sun; Sandhll Principal Trish Gates; 2007 #1 player all grades Hannah Sonsalla and FIM Team Leader Laura Borsecnik. "I've played the 24® game before, in local 24 Challenge® Tournaments, and I'm pretty good at it," says the plucky 11-year-old. "But when my class got to have a First In Math® team, I was really excited, and I realized then that I wanted to meet Mr. Sun, but the only way to guarantee that was to be the top player in the country!" Hannah has been ranked as the #1 player—ALL GRADES—in the program for several months, prevailing over close to 200,000 1st- through 8th-grade students across the country. She currently has 24,408 stickers—the most ever earned in the program—besting her nearest competitor by nearly 1,000 stickers. "Hannah's journey to #1 was not an easy one," explains Sun, creator of the online math program and President of Suntex International. "It takes a tremendous amount of patience, dedication and strategy, as well as talent, to reach the top in this months-long program. This was Hannah's first year playing, but she was able to squeeze the maximum number of stickers from every module. I admire her tenacity." Talented and Gifted Specialist and FIM Team Leader Laura Borsecnik had a feeling Hannah could do it. "She's very determined—and very smart," says Borsecnik. "She is also a well-rounded student, and balances her time between many other activities, including 4-H, piano and Girl Scouts. I am so proud of her." Borsecnik's Team "zeus72wi" is currently the #1 5th grade online team in Wisconsin. Suntex VP Barbara Asteak and Sun welcomed students, parents and educators to a gala First In Math® Awards Ceremony held at the school's gymnasium on May 1 in honor of Hannah and her teammates. Hannah was presented with an Apple iPod® MP3 player. Talented and Gifted Programming Specialist Lynda Oleinik, who taught Hannah last year at Kegonsa Elementary, attended the ceremony, and praised her former student. "I have known Hannah since 1st grade, and she always has excelled in school, but I'm still a little in awe at what she has been able to accomplish this year." In addition to Sandhill Principal Trish Gates, three other district principals were recognized: Mike Jamison; Fred Trotter and Cheryl Price. Also attending the ceremony was Superintendent Dr. Mary Gavigon; Stoughton Mayor Helen Johnson; and school board members David Handt and Ruth Fortney. St. Thomas Aquinas School Is Home to
#1 PHILADELPHIA, PA—Bob Sun, inventor of the 24® Game and developer of the First In Math® Online Program, attended a May 11 Awards Ceremony to honor students and faculty at St. Thomas Aquinas School in South Philadelphia. In their second year of the program, the tiny school's sixth-grade team has achieved the National rank of #1 sixth-grade team!
Back row, left to right: FIM Team Leader Yvonne Matherson; FIM creator and President of Suntex International Robert Sun; Assistant Superintendent for Elementary Education Mary Rochford; Principal Armond Taraborelli; Director of Government funded programs Mary-Ann Kaupp-Deangelo and Director of Elementary Services Deborah Bachor. Front row, left to right: Chhi-Chhi Heng; David Chhoeun; top player Yosua Suyanto; Johnny Lee and Julius Wibisano. St. Thomas Aquinas is also currently ranked #5 in the Top 100 schools in Pennsylvania with five or more teams. Sixth-grader Yosua Suyanto is the top-ranked student on team "Storm72pa," and the top student among the school's eight teams, with more than 14,400 stickers. "We're all very proud of this young man," beamed his teacher Yvonne Matherson, who was presented with an elegant acrylic Team Leader award at the ceremony. Principal Armond Taraborelli accepted a handsome plaque on behalf of the school's top-ranked team. Taraborelli credits St. Thomas students and teachers equally for creating success with the program. "Our teachers encourage participation with incentives such as homework passes, popcorn parties and positive reports to parents," he says. "These inexpensive and effective tools produce a lot of interest in the First In Math® program." Taraborelli says he hopes to use the program for years to come. "When teachers introduce new skills, they can disappear quickly without adequate reinforcement, but FIM provides a way for students to polish new skills in a way they find fun and rewarding," says Principal Taraborelli. "I believe that this program is a fantastic tool for review and reinforcement, and we've experienced significant, measurable increases in our math scores. Wisconsin Fourth-Grade
State Champions SHEBOYGAN FALLS, WI—Sheboygan Falls Elementary school hosted an excitement-packed First In Math® Online Program Awards Ceremony on May 2 to honor it's amazing fourth-grade team, "solar21wi." Competing against more than 10,000 teams nationwide, they are ranked #1 in Wisconsin among fourth-grade teams, and hold the #3 spot among all fourth grade teams—also ranking #10 among ALL grades nationally. When Suntex International, Inc., developer of the First In Math® Online Program, made grants available to 100 Wisconsin schools, Sheboygan Falls Elementary jumped at the opportunity. "Making math fun for my students is a goal of mine, and this program helped me reach that goal." says Michelle Dawson, math teacher and Team Leader. "I have never seen my students so motivated to play and compete. While we had fun watching the rankings of other teams we were trying to beat, I was able to introduce new concepts to the kids as they passed levels."
Inventor Robert Sun autographed t-shirts and medals for many of the students, including top player Jacob Barthels (first picture, right). "I can't wait to play next year," beamed Barthels, as he posed for photographers and the local press. Photos © 2007 Cynthia Sagues Principal Joe Mukavitz was presented with a $500 gift for the school, and Dawson was given a special First In Math® Team Leader Award. All 22 team members received FIM lanyards, and the top five players also received gold medals and 24® Game keychains. The celebration was attended by Sheboygan Falls Mayor Randy Meyer, as well as school board members John Mauer, Tom Bigler and Greg Pribek. Also in attendance were Bob Schweder, representing U.S. Senator Russ Feingold, and State Senator Joe Leibham, who addressed the large crowd of students, teachers, parents and friends filling the school's gymnasium. Robert Sun, president of Suntex International and inventor of the 24® Game, congratulated the students, and told them he was proud of their efforts. Sun also praised educators and parents. School's Motto "Experience in Excellence" BETHELHEM, PA—East Hills Middle School’s 20-member FIRST IN MATH® team, “Super66pa,” attained the #1 spot among all 8th grade FIM teams in the nation this week. An Award Ceremony to recognize their achievement was held during the Bethlehem Area School District’s Curriculum Board meeting on April 10, 2007.
Assistant Principal David Horvath (left), FIM Team Leader Cheryl Moyer (center) and FIM creator Robert Sun (right) pose with some of the top players after the Award Ceremony. Robert Sun, President of Pennsylvania-based Suntex International and inventor of the 24® game and the First In Math® program, was there to congratulate top students, and present medals and prizes. Also in attendance were BASD Superintendent Dr. Joseph Lewis, East Hills Assistant Principal David Horvath and teacher Cheryl Moyer, who was awarded a special “Team Leader” plaque. "When one student started accumulating stickers, I was amazed at how competitive the entire class became," says Moyer. "Their self-motivation was definitely evident. I am very proud of what they have accomplished!" Students earn electronic award stickers by solving math problems of increasing difficulty, then stickers are combined for a Team Total. Teams are tracked through national program Rankings. "Students throughout the U.S. have earned more than 80,000,000 stickers so far during this school year," explains Barbara Asteak, Suntex Vice President. "That translates into thousands of kids spending thousands of hours doing MATH!" Quiet Sixth-Grader Ranked #2 in the Nation PHILADELPHIA, PA–General George A. McCall Elementary School is currently home to the #2 student in the First In Math® Online program. Sixth-grader Ao Kong continues to outperform more than 200,000 students in all grades across the nation, amassing more than 23,000 stickers along the way.
Front row, l to r: Zhewei Wu; Steven Wu; Ao Kong; Chanel Dupree and Kim Nguyen. Back row, l to r: School-Based Teacher Leader Eleanor Castelberry; Principal Carol Domb and Thelma Silber, who serves as "Math 24" coach for the Center City Region. Top McCall players were honored at a lively celebration on April 10, 2007 at the small, Center City Region school. Ao was named a "First In Math® National All-Star." Barbara Asteak, V.P. of Suntex International, and colleague Nancy Kane visited the school to personally hand out prizes to Ao and her schoolmates. Principal Carol Domb praised students and staff. "We strive to provide every student with the educational skills and tools they need to to be productive and engaged citizens," says Domb. According to "unity2pa" Team Leader, Michelle Rivera, many McCall students use the First in Math® program on their own time, during non-school hours. "Our research shows that as much as 40% of the activity on the site takes place at home," says Asteak. "We know students are improving math skills and extending their level of achievement—they think it is just plain fun because there is motivation and reward at every level, just like their favorite video games." First In Math® Program Receives 5-Star
Rating MEDFORD, NJ—The First In Math® program received an overall Rating of "5 Stars" in the March/April Issue of the MultiMedia & Internet @ Schools E-newsletter. Written by Sally Finley, a Florida-based Gifted/Technology teacher, the comprehensive review details and rates features of the program. First In Math® Report Card "This is one of the most innovative, creative, and challenging math tools I have seen in years," says Finley, who offers hints for classroom application and recommendations along with her comments. To access the article on the MultiMedia & Internet @ Schools website, go to www.mmischools.com, and click Current Issues. (If you are not already a MM&I@S member, you will have to sign in to access the full text of the review. First In Math® Program Represented at the ATLANTA, GA—Representatives from Suntex International, makers of the First In Math® Online Program, traveled to Atlanta to attend the 2007 NCTM Annual Meeting and Exposition that began March 21. The colorful First In Math® booth incorporated six iMac computers, allowing educators to experience the program and "compete" for prizes.
Suntex President and CEO, Robert Sun, greeted many of the visitors himself. "The NCTM annual meeting attracts some of the most outstanding mathematics educators in the country, and every year I can't wait to hear what they have to say," says Sun. "We truly value that one-to-one dialog. In return, I hope to share with them our vision of the success they can achieve by unlocking the potential in every student through First In Math®." The three-day exposition featured more than 1,000 presentations, workshops, and minicourses that cover all grade levels. This year's theme was “Mathematics: Representing the Future.” Philadelphia-Area School
Receives Honors; PHILADELPHIA, PA—Morris E. Leeds Middle School students and staff were honored for their hard work and dedication at a First In Math® Awards Ceremony held Thursday, March 1, 2007. Located in the School District of Philadelphia's Northwest Region, Leeds MS is currently ranked 6th in the state of Pennsylvania among all First In Math® teams.
Left to right: Principal Stephanie Mitchell and School-Based Mathematics Teacher Nick Cirulli pose with First In Math creator Robert Sun and FIM Ambassador Cred Dobson during the Award Ceremony. First In Math® creator, Robert Sun, presented awards to Principal Stephanie Mitchell, School-Based Mathematics Teacher Nick Cirulli and Technical Support Teacher Montik Goodwin. The top five students from each of the school's twelve teams using the program in grades 7 and 8 also received prizes. Northwest Regional Superintendent Linda Grobman, Director of Instruction Jackie Greene and Leeds SAT Team Leader Susan Nye also attended the ceremony and congratulated students and teachers on their achievement. The success at Leeds has been a team effort. In a somewhat unique approach, Principal Mitchell created a computer course around the FIM program, titled "Computer Technology," that is a graded requirement for 7th- and 8th-graders. Mr. Cirulli and Mr. Goodwin work closely with classroom teachers and students, helping to motivate students and making sure computer lab time is used as efficiently as possible. With Regional Superintendent Grobman's full support, FIM Ambassador Cred Dobson assists schools in the region and has helped enact various incentive programs for students. Leeds Middle School first implemented the First In Math® Online Program in 2004. In the first year of the program, student Pennsylvania System of School Assessment (PSSA) test scores in mathematics rose 16.2 percentage-points, from 17.5% to 33.7% of students scoring Proficient & Above. Ingenuity, Teamwork and Dedication Help UPDATE 2/7/07: Robert Sun, creator of the First In Math® program, visited Parker Annex ES February 7, 2007, to participate in a special FIM Awards Ceremony honoring their achievement. Shutters clicked as Sherwood Goodenough, District Representative for U.S. Rep. Rush Holt, read the text of a proclamation that was made on the floor of the House of Representatives to honor the FIM teams. Calling them an "extraordinary group," Rep. Holt lauded students, parents, teachers and administrators for their efforts. Also in attendance were: Vice Principal Deborah Giddens-Green; Superintendent of Trenton Public Schools Rodney Lofton and, representing the mayor's office, Samuel Frisby, Acting Director of Recreation, Natural Resources and Culture. Click here to download a PDF of Congressman Rush Holt's remarks.
Several students from Parker Annex School in Trenton receive applause from the assembled crowd during the First In Math award ceremony. TRENTON, NJ—Fifth-grade team "isotope6NJ" from Parker Annex Elementary School in Trenton astonished many when they grabbed the top spot in the First In Math® Online Program during the second week of the new year. The team is ranked #1 nationally among all grades, and currently holds a slim lead over #2 team "cabinet2PA" from Philadelphia's Pollock Elementary. The Mercer County school received three teams through the Trenton Board of Education in the Fall of 2006, and have maintained 100% participation ever since. "I am so proud that many students have used their evenings to commit to this mathematics program," says Vice Principal Deborah Giddens-Green. "This is our first year in the program, but some of our students are among the highest scoring students in New Jersey!" exclaims fifth-grade teacher and "isotope6NJ" Team Leader Ed Butler. "I am so proud of them." Aside from the thrill of being the top team in the nation, Butler says he sees big improvements in his students' math skills. "They definitely are better at relationships with numbers after using FIM, and they all of a sudden realize, 'hey, I CAN do this'." "When we began the program, the students and I had a meeting, and they decided to come up with a plan as to where they could play in addition to their limited time at school," says Butler. "These are motivated students with caring parents, but the reality is that we are located in an inner-city neighborhood, and none of them have computers at home. The kids went home that Friday night, and when we met on Monday, they had all of these great ideas!" says Butler. "Now our students play at Trenton Recreation Department Centers, at the Boy's and Girls' Clubs of Mercer County—wherever they can." "Once we started earning stickers like crazy, they kids were so excited. At that point, we all made the decision to take it really seriously," explains Bultler. The team set goals—first to be #1 in the school. Then to be #1 in the district. Then to be the #1 5th-grade team in New Jersey, then #1 for ALL grades. "You get the picture," smiles Butler. "We kept on setting goals—right up until we were aiming for #1 ALL GRADES in the entire nation!" Team Leaders at Parker Annex also constantly recognize students for their achievement, whether it is a pizza party sponsored by a local fraternity house, prizes donated by local stores, or in-school awards handed out for 'Max Points' or the 'Daily Top 8 Scorers'. "I believe it is really important to offer recognition to the students—it motivates them to achieve," says Giddens-Green. click here for the full story and additional photos Photos © 2007 Parker Annex Competition to be "First In Math" Heats
Up in Florida; WESTON, FLÑTwo Broward County schools continue to vie for the top spot in the First In Math¨ Online Program in the state of Florida. Manatee Bay Elementary School's Team Òkenosha9FLÓ is currently ranked #1 among all teams in Florida, followed closely by Oakridge Elementary School. As part of a 2006/2007 pilot program in the state, nearly 70 First In Math¨ Online teams were made available free-of-charge to Florida schools who wanted to explore this unique addition to their math curriculum. "I heard about First in Math via an email sent through my district, and I am always looking for new and innovative ways to challenge my gifted 5th graders," explains Manatee Bay's Lisa Weingartner. "FIM has definitely had a positive impact on my class. Students' speed and accuracy in computation and mental math has increased greatly, and they are better able to "hold" numbers in their head while doing multi-step problems."
Manatee Bay Elementary's Team "kenosha9FL" also ranks 4th nationally among 5th grade teams. (photo © Manatee Bay ES) "The students love the positive, academic competition and they are always eager to find out how they are doing compared to their classmates and other schools around the state and country," says Weingartner. What is impressive, according to FIM National DIrector Mark Losey, is the fact that this relatively new team is ranked #4 nationally among 5th grade teams, and #8 nationally among ALL grades. "It has been nothing short of inspiring to watch their steady progress," says Losey, who will travel to Florida to congratulate both teams in March. According to the team's top-scorer Janae, "This competition has taught me not to give up. I set goals for myself every week, and I continue to push myself until I reach that goal." Hollywood's Oakridge Elementary boasts the #2 team in Florida, Team Òskier58FL," trailing the Manatee Bay team by less than 700 points. "Our team is also ranked #2 nationally among 4th grade teams," beams Team Leader Pauline Watson, who says the online program has been an excellent way to reach students. "I've had students literally beg me to stay after school so they could use the program during the after-care hours." Watson invited fellow teacher, Kimberly Johnson, to use some of the student passwords for her team. "Ms. Johnson and I were both thrilled to see how quickly the students learned how to navigate through the different levels, and they have continued exploring the higher Skill Sets¨, teaching themselves about decimals, fractions, integers, and even algebraic equations!"
Oakridge Elementary's Òskier58FL" 4th grade team poses for a group shot with Team Leader Pauline Watson. (photo © Oakridge ES) "Students who need help with everything from the mathematical strands all the way to specific number facts can get what they need educationally from this program," says Johnson, who teaches gifted classes in grades 4 and 5. "I have been using the 24¨ game for about eight years, and my students always look forward to it. Now, with First in Math, they can play the game they enjoy with the added benefit of the technology component. Having a web-based version allows them to play at home or any time they are able, and also allows the parents to see the mathematical value of the program." Even more important, according to Johnson, is the effect of the program on her students' view of mathematics. "I simply cannot explain in words how much my students love using First in Math! The spirit, enthusiasm and cooperation I have witnessed in my children is phenomenal! When one student passes a GYM or completes a Skill Set¨, the entire class cheers and claps as their peer gets a certificate from me. I am so totally sold on the program that if my school and/or district does not purchase the program, I will use my personal funds to be sure my students have this next year, and hopefully many years to come." Philadelphia School Puts the "First" in First In Math! (UPDATED 1/3/07) PHILADELPHIA, PAÑPollock Elementary School's auditorium buzzed with excitement as faculty and students gathered to celebrate the school's incredible success in the First In Math¨ Online Program. Representatives from the program, including FIM creator Robert Sun, were on hand to present awards at the December 8 ceremony.
Left to right, back row: FIM Ambassador Cred Dobson; East Region Director of Instruction Sharon Glickstein; 24 Game Inventor Robert Sun and Regional Superintendent Dr. Mary Louise DeNicola. Front row: #1 Player in the NationÑall gradesÑValentino Papa. Pollock's statistics are impressive. Nine out of the top ten players in the Philadelphia School District are Pollock ES students. Pollock ES is also home to the #1 team in the nation among all grades, "Cabinet2pa," with an average sticker count of 2,665 stickers per student. "Not bad for a bunch of third-graders," quipped one smiling team member. Valentino Papa, the team's star player, is currently ranked #1 in the nation, all grades, and was presented with the FIM "All Star" award and a Certificate of Excellence. As of December 11, Valentino has amassed 17,752 stickers, and is on his way to becoming a member of the exclusive FIM "20,000 Club." Andrea Miller, Director of Math at Pollock ES, is a driving force behind the school's FIM success. "First in Math is an amazing educational tool because it teaches much-needed thinking and computation skills and raises test scores," says Miller. "The best thing about First in Math is the excitement it generates from teachers, parents and especially the children. It is a vital part of the educational process here at Pollock School." "I am very proud of of all of our amazing FIM teams, and our Team Leaders," says Principal Kathleen Quinn. "At the beginning of the school year, we set a goal of being the #1 FIM School in the state of Pennsylvania and accomplished this feat on November 15. After the award ceremony was planned, however, we were knocked out of first place by a middle school in Philadelphia. Not to be outdone, our tenacious teams dug in, and by the time Bob Sun arrived at Pollock today, the students had worked their way back to #1!" Pollock ES also boasts several other nationally-ranked teams: #1 and #10 third-grade; #2 and #5 fourth-grade and the #3 and #8 sixth-grade teams. Neal Beitman, Leader of Team "Cabinet2pa" received a FIM Certificate of Excellence, as did 11 other Pollock Team leaders: Carol Murray; Leona Robinson; Lakisha Baxter; Susannah Lucas; Jacqueline Barton; Bruce Skversky; Lindita Zeneli; Natasha Hord; Lisa Glickstein; Debbie McCusker and Pamela MacDonald. UPDATE: Principal Quinn recently announced that the PA Department of Education has nominated Pollock ES for 'National Blue Ribbon School' consideration. "The announcements of actual winners will be next Fall," explains Quinn. "We enjoyed reading about nearby Hill Freedman Middle School being named a National Blue Ribbon winner on your website, and I believe It cannot be a coincidence that both schools are heavily into First in Math. We have outstanding teachers and an atmosphere that values high achievement, but definitely, positively, First In Math is a key component to our success." First "Card of the Day" Contest Winner Announced! BEAVER, PAÑRuth Kuhlmann of College Square Elementary School in Beaver, PA has become the first winner of the First In Math¨ Card of the Day contest, sponsored by Suntex. Chosen at random from all eligible contestants for the month of November, Ruth's school will receive one Winner's Circle Program Kit! "I can't believe it," exclaimed Mrs. Kuhlmann. "I never thought I would win, and now we will be receiving all of these great incentives for our FIM players. When I found out we won the contest, I immediately emailed our principal, Mr. Pittman, and told him that Christmas came early to College Square!Ê He is just as thrilled as we are." College Square ES's top-scoring team, "Nova39PA," is currently ranked #11 among fourth-grade teams in the state of Pennsylvania, and is ranked #55 in the country among fourth-grade teams. The team's top player, Robert Harn, was the top player nationally among third graders last year.
Team "Nova39PA," flanked by Academic Tutor and FIM Team Leader Ruth Kuhlmann and Principal Dennis Pittman. The Winner's Circle eight-week program is designed to motivate students to advance as far as possible through FIM Skill Sets and Bonus games. Winner's Circle Kits include: 40 Pocket Editions of the 24¨ game; 200 FIM Certificates; 200 FIM Tickets for weekly drawings; 20 FIM lanyards; 20 FIM keychains; ten 24 Game cloisonne pins and a Grand Prize of one Apple iPod¨ shuffle MP3 music player. The monthly Card of the Day contest is open to any First In Math¨ Team Leader with a 2006/2007 team. All Team Leaders need to do is correctly solve the card that appears each day on their Team Leader Home Page. Each correctly-solved card counts as one entry for that month's random drawing. Hill Freedman Middle School Named 2006 Blue Ribbon School PHILADELPHIA, PAÑHill Freedman Middle School, helmed by First In Math¨ Principal of the Year Diane Hathaway, has been named a 2006 No Child Left Behind Blue Ribbon School! The Blue Ribbon School designation is considered to be the highest honor that an American school can achieve, and is bestowed upon fewer than 300 U.S. schools each year. The Blue Ribbon Award honors public and private K-12 schools with at least 40 percent of their students from disadvantaged backgrounds that dramatically improve student performance in accordance with state assessment systems; and it rewards schools that score in the top 10 percent on state assessments.
"We are the first public school in Philadelphia to receive this award since No Child Left Behind legislation was instituted, explains Hathaway. "The Blue Ribbon Award signifies that we are in the top 10% of schools in the nation, and I would like to thank all students, teachers, parents, community members and our extended school district family who worked hard to help us achieve this distinction." Receiving this important award is a result of the vision Principal Hathaway has for her school. "We consistently show that the capacity to learn is not determined or limited by race, family income, native language, gender or area of residence. Not all students come to school prepared to learn," explains Hathaway, "but we must always search for ways to reach them, and provide programs that help them grow."
Left to right: First In Math Ambassador Cred Dobson; Director of School Support Services Steve Spence; Principal Diane Hathaway; Regional Superintendent Linda Grobman; Director of Instruction Jackie Greene and Director of Special Education John Murphy pose with the Blue Ribbon School flag and awards. U.S. Secretary of Education Margaret Spellings announced the names of the 2006 No Child Left Behind - Blue Ribbon Schools in October, 2006. A ceremony was held in Washington, DC, in November to honor the winners. "These schools show what wonderful accomplishments can be made when we focus on the bottom line in education Ð student achievement," Spellings says. Each school will receive a plaque and a flag signifying their NCLB-BRS status. (see related story below) Philadelphia Principal Receives Special First In Math® Achievement Award PHILADELPHIA, PA—Not even cold and rainy weather could dampen the enthusiasm of those who attended a special First In Math® awards ceremony to honor principals of top-performing School District of Philadelphia Northwest Region schools. Linda Grobman, Superintendent of the Northwest Region, hosted the October 6 ceremony, held at the Region's offices at Leeds Middle School. Hill-Freedman School Principal Diane Hathaway was named Northwest Region First In Math® Principal of the Year 2005/2006, and was presented with the "Cred Dobson Achievement Award" by First In Math® creator Robert Sun.
Northwest Region First In Math® Principal of the Year Diane Hathaway (holding award) is congratulated by: (left to right) Award namesake Cred Dobson; Regional Superintendent Linda Grobman and First In Math® creator Robert Sun. Also in attendance was Region Director of Instruction Jackie Greene. Hill-Freedman implemented the First In Math® program during the 2003/2004 school year, and quickly achieved preeminence, attaining the Number 3 spot in the prestigious “FIM Top 100 Schools in the State” ranking. Their hard work paid off when year-end Pennsylvania System of School Assessment (PSSA) test scores in mathematics skyrocketed, showing 84.7% of Hill-Freedman's 8th grade students scoring Proficient & Above. This represented a 41.2 percentage-point jump over the previous year. Hill-Freedman students not only maintained this high level of achievement, but extended it another five percentage points in the second year of the program, when 89.7% of 8th grade students reached the Proficient & Above benchmark. "Everyone took great pride in knowing that Hill-Freedman was the third-highest scoring school in the School District of Philadelphia on their 8th grade PSSA scores," says Principal Hathaway.
Sustaining this high level of excellence is not an easy task, but it is clear that Principal Hathaway has established a legacy of success at her school. In the third year of the program, 88.6% of 8th grade students scored P&A on the 2006 PSSA test. Even more amazing was the achievement of the 7th grade, where 94.9% scored P&A, with 78% scoring in the Advanced category. “Hill-Freedman’s phenomenal success is due in large part to the way Principal Hathaway motivates her students—she expects them to do well and they do” says Sun. “I marvel at how masterfully Diane Hathaway has used the First In Math® program as another tool in her arsenal to create such success.” "We teach our students to visualize where they want to be, set goals for achievement and to have a strong work ethic," explains Hathaway. "It is the work ethic of the students and teachers using First In Math® that has helped us realize our vision and goal of being a 2006 No Child Left Behind - Blue Ribbon School. Our Math Coach Hope Glover was also a major motivator." (The NCLB program recognizes schools that make significant progress in closing the achievement gap or whose students achieve at very high levels.) Ten other principals received Certificates of Recognition "for inspiring Outstanding Mathematics Achievement" in their respective schools: Marco Zanoni (AMY Northwest School); Karen Dean (Anna B. Day School); Joyce Guy-Patton (William Rowen School); Cheryl Eisenberg (John S. Jenks School); Mark Wilicki (James Logan School); Deborah Jolley (Henry H. Houston School); Stephanie Mitchell (Morris E. Leeds Middle School); Robert Mack (Widener K-12); Sharen Finzimer (Franklin S. Edmonds); John Underwood (John F. McCloskey School). The now-retired Dobson, former Academic Coach of Mathematics for the School District of Philadelphia's Northwest Region, had nothing but praise for his former colleagues. "I am honored to have my name attached to this First in Math® Mathematics Achievement Award," he said. "However, the kudos here belong to the people of the Northwest Region. The Regional Staff, the Principals, the School-Based Mathematics Teacher Leaders, the Technology Teacher Leaders and the 316 classes of students who spent many hours online practicing their Mathematics Skills. They accumulated more than five million stickers. Congratulations to you all—and thank you for the memories." Tyco Electronics Foundation Funds Grant HARRISBURG, PAÑFor the past 15 years, the Tyco Electronics Corporation has been a steadfast supporter of the 24 Challenge¨ Math Program, sponsoring numerous events in Pennsylvania and North Carolina. In recent years, they have shifted a portion of their resources to the innovative, technology-based program, First In Math¨ Online. This year's First In Math¨ Program grant will focus on San Mateo County in California. In an industry that evolves as rapidly as electronics, Tyco knows that innovative technologies help build what comes next. "In today's Information Society, that means helping schools enter the electronic age," says Mary Rakoczy, Administrator of the Tyco Electronics Foundation. "We make contributions to organizations that have a Community Impact, particularly those programs with an educational component, such as the First In Math¨ Online Program." The Tyco Electronics Foundation is the conduit for Tyco Electronics Corporation to make charitable contributions in communities where employees live and work. To support the needs of our technology-driven world, the Tyco Electronics Foundation focuses on education, with an emphasis on pre-college math and science. "Good communities are built around sound educational opportunities," explains Rakoczy. "We are committed to providing the First In Math¨ Program for this area, where it can take hold. Hopefully these efforts will provide the results seen in other districts that have implemented the program, such as Philadelphia Public Schools and National City in California." Philadelphia Archdiocese Finds Success PHILADELPHIA, PAÑBob Sun, inventor of the 24¨ Game and developer of the First In Math¨ Online Program, was enrolled in the fifth grade at the St. Francis De Sales School soon after arriving in Philadelphia from Shanghai, China. That was more than 40 years ago, but his dedication to the archdiocesan schools has not wavered. During the 2005/2006 school year, the Philadelphia Archdiocese collaborated with Sun to introduce the First In Math¨ online program in its schools. The successful pilot included 25 schools that fielded a total of 122 teams in grades three and five. Among the schools is South Philadelphia's St. Thomas Aquinas, who had 125 participating students on four teams. St. Thomas students, typically from economically disadvantaged homes, represent many diverse cultures: African American, Cambodian, Thai, Indonesian, Latins from Central America and Caucasian. "Many of these students are global learners," explains principal Armand Taraborelli. "their right-brain dominance benefits from the use of manipulatives, hands-on activities, and computer graphics, and the First In Math¨ program meets their needs." To determine what impact, if any, the activity on FIMÕs web site had on the Terra Nova (a nationally-normed standardized test) scores for his third-grade students, Principal Taraborelli used the groupÕs second grade scores as a point of comparison. What he found was a significant increase in math scores, year-to-year. "Obviously, this program was a tremendous help to our students," says Taraborelli. (See chart)
Asked to identify the key to the programÕs success in his school, Taraborelli did not hesitate to mention the competition element—especially with fellow archdiocesan school St. Denis—and the fact that FIM is a fantastic supplement for review and reinforcement. "When teachers introduce skills, they seem to vanish without adequate exposure," mused the principal, "but FIM provides a way for students to stay in shape!" Taraborelli also credits the interest and enthusiasm of individual teachers for the amazing performance of St. Thomas third graders. "Our teachers encouraged students with incentives such as homework passes, popcorn parties and positive notes to parents," says Taraborelli. "These inexpensive and effective tools produced a whirlwind of activity on the First In Math¨ site." Taraborelli shared his findings with Sr. Edward William Quinn, Chairperson of the Elementary Mathematics Curriculum Committee for the Archdiocese of Philadelphia. "We are thankful that this program is providing tangible results for some of our neediest kids," says Sr. Edward. Shonak Patel of Bethlehem, Pennsylvania, BETHLEHEM, PAÑSeventh-grader Shonak Patel of Nitschmann Middle school grabbed the #1 spot nationally among ALL grades in the First In Math Online Program. Shonak amassed a total of 22,572 stickers, surpassing his closest competitors, Sang Choi of San Diego and Enxhi Rrapi of Philadelphia. Only six students out of more than 300,000 participating elementary and middle school students nationwide topped the 20,000-sticker mark during the 2005/2006 school year!
Shonak Patel receives a 24¨ Game gold medal from Bethlehem Area School District Superintendent Dr. Joseph Lewis, as his mother and other school district members applaud. "Shonak would play for about two hours a day, consistently," says his mother, Monica Patel. "I would tell him that it may not be enough to reach the top spot. His reply stunned me. According to him, the students who played a lot each day made careless mistakes, and did not earn the maximum number of possible points. By going slow and steady, he was earning the maximum number of points in each skill level!! As he promised me, in May he reached his goal." "I want to encourage younger students to play patiently," explains Shonak, "as it does not matter what rank you hold in the first few months!" Shonak just can't get enough of First In Math. "Math is his life, passion and joy. He is constantly lost in his math world," says Mrs. Patel. Part of the reason is that he has a developmental disability called Asperger Syndrome, sometimes known as high-functioning autism. Some of his teachers have named him "Little Einstein." Last year, he topped Carnegie Mellon University's summer math program for gifted students during a week-long contest. But the high point of his life was when Robert Sun sent him a personally-signed 24¨ game set early this year. Five other students from the small Bethlehem Area School District in eastern Pennsylvania also were highly ranked in the program: Eighth-grader Jennings Luu (#5) and his sister, sixth-grader Lianne Luu (#7) also attend Nitschmann; Sixth-graders Alexa Curto (#15) and Grace Mao (#19) attend East Hills Middle School; Fifth-grader Samantha Miller (#27) attends Spring Garden Middle School. Each of these amazing players earned more than 10,000 award stickers, a feat accomplished by only 45 players. These students, along with their teachers and principals, were honored during a district Board Curriculum meeting on March 13, 2006 before an audience of district administrators and board members. Fairfax County, Virginia, School Receives First In Math¨ Honors ALEXANDRIA, VAÑStudents from Bren Mar Park Elementary School were honored at a First In Math¨ awards assembly on June 13. Six Bren Mar Park FIM teams earned first place honors in the stateÑand among other schools in the Fairfax County Public School DistrictÑcompeting against more than 2,000 of their fellow elementary- and middle-school students.
Front row, left to right: Shareen Arshad, Nardos Assefa and Angel Ly. Back row, left to right: Rochelle Day, Bren Mar Park Math Coordinator; Cecelia Krill, Cluster Three Director - Fairfax County Schools; Jackie Johnson, Bren Mar Park Technology Assistant and Susan Fitz, Principal. Fourth grade student Shareen Arshad is ranked 83rd nationally among fourth graders and 8th among all players in Virginia. Five Bren Mar Park students also rank among the top 100 players in the state: fifth grade student Angel Ly, ranked 3rd; fifth grade student Nardos Assefa, ranked 10th; fifth grade student Dana Filipczyk, ranked 18th; fourth grade student Emily Vo, ranked 45th; and fifth grade student Antonio Alves, ranked 58th. Students and Team Leaders were presented with awards, certificates and medals by Suntex Vice President Barbara Asteak, who also congratulated local administrators. ÒWe are thrilled to have the opportunity to recognize not only these amazing students, but also the many dedicated educators who work so hard to provide an environment of academic excellence,Ó said Asteak. Willow Hill Elementary Students Honored for District-Wide Achievement GLENSIDE, PAÑA select group of sixth-grade students at Willow Hill Elementary School were presented with special First In Math¨ Program awards March 3. The top five students on Team "Chase 5 PA" were presented with medals and special FIM Award Certificates for outstanding achievement. "Chase 5 PA" is the #1 Team in the First In Math Online Program among all five elementary schools in the Abington School District.
Far right, rear: Jody Hecker, representing the First In Math Online Program and FIM Team Leader Jean Sneade pose with Team Chase 5 PA. Willow Hill sixth-grade teacher, and proud Team Leader, Jean M. Sneade is especially excited about her studentsÕ accomplishment this year, and is a strong supporter of the First In Math Online Program in the Abington School District. ÒThe students are very Ôcomputer-game oriented,Õ so this fits in with their lifestyle,Ó commented Sneade. ÒMy students enjoy competing against each other, as well as competing as a team.Ó Willow Hill Elementary students are also actively involved with their school districtÕs 24 Challenge¨ Math Program, using the actual 24¨ game cards in tournament-style play. ÒIt is interesting to see how some children who are not necessarily at the top of their class in math are stars of the game,Ó Sneade stated. Four Philadelphia Schools Receive Awards PHILADELPHIA, PAÑStudents and Team Leaders from Conwell Middle School received special accolades from program creator Robert Sun at a May 30 Award Ceremony assembly attended by Philadelphia School District administrators and Principal Ed Hoffman. Conwell Middle School is ranked #1 in Pennsylvania in the First In Math¨ Online Program. Conwell's 647 participating students, led by technology teacher Maryanne McCabe, competed against more than 300,000 other elementary- and middle-school students actively engaged in the program in the 2005/2006 school year.
Robert Sun (rear, left) joins top performers at Conwell Middle School. Also in attendance were: Lucy Rodriguez-Feria, Regional Superintendent of the Central East Region in the Philadelphia School District; Renee Singeltary, special events coordinator at Conwell; FIM Team Leader Mr. Boicesco and Principal Ed Hoffman. "We are proud to enhance mathematics education for students through the First In Math program,Ó said Lucy Rodriguez-Feria, Superintendent of PhiladelphiaÕs Central East Region. "This initiative offers a fun and innovative learning experience for children in math and technology to prepare them with critical skills for the future. Today's event at Conwell Middle School celebrates studentsÕ enthusiasm for math and serves as an inspiration to all of us.Ó Three additional School District of Philadelphia Schools received awards on May 30: Mayfair Elementary School (East Region)Ñthe #5 FIM school in Pennsylvania; Kirkbride Elementary School (South Region)Ñthe #8 FIM school in Pennsylvania and Shoemaker Middle School (West Region)Ñthe #9 FIM school in PA.
Above, left to right: Robert Sun; Victoria Magness, Kirkbride Principal and John Trangipani, Regional Superintendent, present the FIM Award of Excellence to Sam Keo (holding certificate), Math Chair at Kirkbride Elementary School. "We would like to thank Mr. Sun for taking time to be with us at our First In Math award assembly," said Kirkbride Principal Victoria Magness. "Your presence made the assembly more meaningful and special. Thank you also for your dedication and hard work in awarding our students with medals and prizes. We are truly appreciative. Our students and staff will always remember this momentous event." ÒI think everyone should congratulate the students in these schools for their outstanding achievement in math,Ó said Robert Sun, Creator of the First In Math program. ÒThe 21st century will be defined by technological, scientific and mathematical advancement and AmericaÕs prominence in this age cannot be assured without talented students. Praise must also be given to the teachers at Conwell, Mayfair and Kirkbride and Shoemaker for providing an environment for achievement and the School District of Philadelphia for offering this program to highlight scholastic excellence.Ó Dedicated Educator Honored by Colleagues Cred Dobson, Academic Coach, Mathematics, for the School District of Philadelphia's Northwest Region, was honored by fellow educators and friends on May 12, 2006 with a retirement party hosted by Region Superintendent Linda Grobman and Region Director of Instruction Jackie Greene. In recognition of his 41 years of service, Dobson was presented with myriad honors, including a Lifetime Achievement Award from Robert Sun, creator of the First In Math¨ online program. "Cred has been tireless in his pursuit of excellence in mathematics education," says Sun. "This is a man who goes out to the schools, who talks with kids and teachers, and gets them excited about math." "After all these years, he remains passionate about education, and open to new teaching tools, such as the First In Math¨ online program," explains Sun. "Cred was instrumental in promoting the program when it was new to the district, and we would like to show our appreciation by announcing the beginning of an annual First In Math¨ Cred Dobson Lifetime Achievement Award. The award will be open to principals in the Northwest Region who share the same dedication to students and enthusiasm for what they can achieve that Cred has expemplified during the course of his career."
Dobson, holding his Lifetime Achievement Award, and Robert Sun. Photo © 2006 Maryland Elementary School Student Honored Prince George's CountyÕs Glenarden Woods Elementary School is home to the nationÕs top-ranked second-grader in the First In Math¨ Online Program. Caleb McCammon has earned more than 9,900 award stickers, placing him in an elite group of students. Fewer than 50 of the more than 300,000 elementary- and middle-school students nationwide make it into this scoring tier—this amazing second-grader is ranked #36! McCammon received a gold medal and a special award from program creator Robert Sun during a ceremony held May 12. McCammon's team, ÒSystem 5 MD,Ó led by Glenarden Woods teacher David Doran, was also honored as the 6th-ranked second-grade team competing in the program. Mrs. Oretha Bridgewater, Region 2 Director for Prince George's County, was one of several County Administrators who attended event. Dr. Jeanne Paynter of the Maryland State Department of Education was on hand for the awards presentation, as were Judith Russ and Diane Kendrick, Mathematics Supervisors for Prince George's County.
Above, Caleb displays his Certificate of Excellence to the press. Below, adults in photo (l to r): Cynthia Jones-Bowlding, Principal of Glenarden Woods ES; Dave Doran, "System 5 MD" Team Leader; Robert Sun and Oretha Bridgewater.
"We are proud to enhance mathematics education for students through the First In Math program,Ó said Theresa Jackson, PG CountyÕs Talented and Gifted Supervisor. "This initiative offers a fun and innovative learning experience for children in math and technology to prepare them with critical skills for the future. Today's event at Glenarden Woods celebrates studentsÕ enthusiasm for math and serves as an inspiration to all of us." ÒI think everyone should congratulate Caleb and his classmates for their outstanding achievement in math,Ó said Robert Sun. ÒThe 21st century will be defined by technological, scientific and mathematical advancement, and AmericaÕs prominence in this age cannot be assured without talented students. Praise must also be given to the math teachers at Glenarden Woods Elementary for providing an environment of achievement, and to Prince George's County administrators for offering this program to highlight scholastic excellence.Ó Photo © 2006 Suntex Int. Inc. Ohio Kindergarten Student Scores Amazing
Progress CINCINNATI, OH—Max Paula is an amazing kindergartner who was searching for a challenge in math. "First In Math¨ not only provided him with that challenge, but has allowed him to blossom academically, emotionally and socially. In his mind, the online program has validated him as a person and as a child with real mathematical ability," says Barbara Morelock, Gifted and Talented Intervention Specialist at Fairview German Language School in Cincinnati. In March, 24¨ Game inventor Robert Sun attended a First In Math¨ award ceremony to honor Fairview students, and some of the teachers began telling him about Max. "At first, I didn't believe what I was hearing," says Sun. "I had to see for myself, so I watched in amazement as five-year-old Max began multiplying and dividing with negative numbers in the Integers Gym." "What makes it even more impressive is the fact that Max progressed through most of these new skills on his own, with minimal instruction," explains Sun. "First In Math¨ is designed to immerse students in the learning processÑthereby encouraging the acquisition of new skills." Mrs. Turner, Max's Kindergarten teacher, agrees. "The program not only captures his attention, but also encourages him to persevere until he masters a concept. First In Math¨ has taken Max to the next levelÑeven sixth-graders seek out his help!" she says. As of May, 2006, Max has amassed more than 3,080 stickers and has completed all eight Skill Sets¨, which include fractions, integers, decimals, exponents and algebra cards. He is currently the top scorer in his school, all grades.
Pictured, left to right: Barbara Morelock, Gifted and Talented Intervention Specialist; Betsy Singh, Coordinator of Gifted Programming; Max and Robert Sun. Photo © 2006 Suntex Int. Inc. Verizon Foundation Honors Goodnoe E.S. for National Achievement in First In Math¨ Program NEWTOWN, PA—Goodnoe Elementary School Fourth-grader Christopher Mienert was honored March 20 for his accomplishments in the First In Math Online Program. Mienert has earned more than 10,000 award stickers so farÑonly 22 students out of more than 300,000 elementary and middle school students nationwide have accomplished this feat to date. MienertÕs online team, Canopy 8 PA has also shown tremendous achievement and is currently ranked #4 in the state. GoodnoeÕs other top team, Army 2 PA, is currently ranked #6 among fourth-grade teams. Both team's members received special awards from Verizon Foundation representative Daniel Reavy, US Rep. Michael Fitzpatrick and program creator Robert Sun during an award ceremony at Goodnoe Elementary.
Pictured, left to right: Conressman Michael G. Fitzpatrick; Team Leader Charyl Kerns-Hill; FIM All Star Chris Meinert (with certificate); Principal Eileen Dwell; 24 Game inventor Robert Sun and Daniel J. Reavy of Verizon Pennsylvania. "On behalf of Verizon, we are proud to enhance literacy education for students through the First In Math programÓ, said Daniel J. Reavy, Director of External Affairs for Verizon Pennsylvania. "Today's event at Goodnoe celebrates studentsÕ enthusiasm for math and serves as an inspiration to all of us." ÒThe 21st century will be defined by technological, scientific and mathematical advancement and AmericaÕs prominence in this age cannot be assured without talented students,Ó added Congressman Michael G. Fitzpatrick. "Praise must also be given to the math teachers at Goodnoe Elementary for providing an environment for achievement and to Verizon for offering this program to highlight and honor scholastic excellence.Ó Charyl Kerns-Hills, Goodnoe's Math Resource and Technology teacher, was the inspiration for the schoolÕs participation in the program. She received one FIM team four years ago through a Verizon Foundation grant and has steadily built the program to include all 4th and 5th grade students. Rebecca Johnson was recognized at the ceremony as a very close competitor to Chris Meinert. Just 3 days later, she was able to close the gap and become a First In Math All Star herself with 10,002 points! To read the full Press Release, click here. Photo © 2006 Suntex Int. Inc. New National Top Player in FIM Program
Philadelphia, PA—Richmond School fifth-grader Enxhi Rrapi has regained her position as the number one player in the First In Math Online Program as of March 14, 2006. In passing California rival Sang Choi for the top spot, she has also surpassed the 20,000-sticker threshold and become the second member of the FIM "20,000 Club." Our congratulations to this amazing competitor! To read an earlier News & Notes feature about Enxhi, click here. California Player Crosses 20,000-sticker Threshold!
"These two amazing students have been jousting for the top spot for months," says Jody Hecker, Communications Specialist for the FIM program. "Their dedication and spirit is inspiring, not only to adults, but to their fellow players as well." To read an earlier News & Notes feature about Sang, click here. For Enxhi's story, click here. Philadelphia School District's Northeast Region Receives Awards for Mathematics Achievement
The School District of PhiladelphiaÕs Northeast Region principals were honored February 10 for their schools' success in the First In Math¨ Online ProgramÑand in mathematics in generalÑas measured by the 2005 Pennsylvania System of School Assessment (PSSA). The Northeast Region is the districtÕs top area in the First In Math¨ Program. Robert Sun, creator of the 24¨ game and First In Math¨ Online Program, awarded special certificates and medals to 18 principals whose schools experienced significant increases in their PSSA math scores from 2004 to 2005. Double-digit improvements in PSSA test scores were posted by 12 of the Northeast Region's 22 elementary and middle schools. The Northwest Region, ranked second in the district in the First In Math¨ program, also exhibited increased PSSA scores, with 22 of its 33 elementary and middle schools posting double-digit increases from 2004 to 2005. After implementing the FIM program two years ago, ALL Northwest Region elementary and middle schools were able to meet government-mandated Adequate Yearly Progress (AYP) standards in mathematics for the 2004-2005 school year. Pictured above, left to right are: Dr. Harris Lewin, Regional Superintendent of the Northeast Region, School District of Philadelphia; Hancock Elementary Principal Rosemary Cataldi and Robert Sun. To read more about schools involved in the First In Math¨ Online Program and increased standardized test scores, click here. Philly District Continues Climb REPRINTED from the January, 2006 issue of The Urban Educator (Published by the Council of the Great City Schools) The School District of Philadelphia recently saw test-score gains for a fourth consecutive year. The nationÕs eighth largest school system showed measurable growth on the standardized, nationally normed TerraNova test, with overall increases in district schools scoring at or above the national average in reading, language arts and math. The percentage of third through eighth graders scoring
at or above the national average on the TerraNova increased more than
13 points in reading and language arts, and jumped 18.3 points in math,
compared with 2001-2002, the district reports. The Philadelphia First in Math online program was
used in more than 2,600 third through eighth grade classrooms throughout
the district during the 2003-2004 school year, when the program was implemented.
Math scores went up. Philadelphia Students Use First In Math to Broaden Social Horizons PHILADELPHIA, PAÑSelected students from Prince Hall School of the School District of Philadelphia are part of a new educational partnership involving special needs students at Widener Memorial and the First In Math Online Program. The partnership is designed to increase student interaction and promote student diversity training. Students work together, coaching each other on different levels and games on First In Math, and then have a pizza party ÒluncheonÓ with their new team members. ÒWeÕve been trying to come up with something involving other schools close to us and this was a great way for our kids to interact with their peers from other schools,Ó stated Gloria Summers, FIM advisor at Widener. ÒThey had to interact with a counterpart from their partner school, so they were not allowed to sit next to anyone from their own school. I love it, because they are now talking and sharing, they are developing socialization skills.Ó
Jennifer provides some coaching "hints" for Michael as they try to earn more points on the First In Math site. SummersÕ counterpart at Prince Hall is Hope Thomas. According to Thomas, the Prince Hall students were very excited to visit Widener and work with other kids on FIM. The schoolÕs top eight FIM students were chosen to participate in the partnership with Widener. ÒItÕs really good for our kids because it exposes them to other types of students,Ó Thomas commented. The project stemmed from an idea between Prince Hall Principal Sharon Patton-Thaxton and Widener Principal Robert Mack. The colleagues are former co-workers, as Thaxton is the former assistant principal of Widener. According to Mack, computer programs are natural conduits for students to turn to, as many have been using computers or various technologies to communicate with others. ÒThis provides interaction for the students in a natural environment. When these kind of social skills develop in natural settings, and are not forced, they become embedded,Ó adds Mack. ÒFirst In Math really sets the tone for what the youngsters can do in a natural environment.Ó Mack also stated that when individuals interact with others who are physically disabled they have many distinct opportunities to learn about them, specifically through three different types of interaction: service, proximal and reciprocal. Service interaction is where people are assisting the physically disabled; they are literally providing a service to those individuals. Proximal interaction is where someone sits next to a physically challenged individual and learns something, for example by observing their wheelchair or another physical characteristic. The final interaction is reciprocal interaction—the best way for others to learn about those in our community who are physically disabled. The Widener/Prince Hall FIM experience provides students with reciprocal interaction, where they are learning the most they can from their counterparts. According to Mack, FIM has been extremely influential among students at Widener Memorial. The school experienced an incredible 67.6 percentage-point increase in students scoring proficient and above in the Pennsylvania School System of Assessment (PSSA) test among eighth grade students from 2004 to 2005. Half of Widener students take the Pennsylvania Alternative System of Assessment (PASA) because these children are classified as having cognitive issues from brain injuries, in addition to being physically disabled. The PASA was developed in response to the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA), passed in 1997. ÒWe are very proud of our students, and have achieved AYP for the past two years,Ó Mack said. ÒWe believe First In Math had a large part in that.Ó Prince Hall also showed tremendous achievement in math as per the PSSA, fifth grade showed a 9.3% increase in math scores from 2004 to 2005. The new partnership between Prince Hall and Widener will also include the use of actual 24¨ game cards to prepare students from both schools for the region-wide 24 Challenge¨ tournament in the spring. Widener students will travel to Prince Hall for their next meeting, and students will go back and forth for each scheduled project date. Principals Mack and Thaxton are very pleased with the impact the project has already shown on their students, they hope to continue the educational partnership for many years to come. (To see more photos click here) Photo © Suntex International Inc. Paxinosa Third-Grader Earns Extra Reward EASTON, PAÑPaxinosa Elementary student David Ahearn was thrilled when he earned a Certificate of Excellence for his participation in the First In Math¨ Online Program, but he was in for an even bigger thrillÑa personal meeting with 24¨ Game inventor Robert Sun. In December, David was invited to visit the corporate headquarters of Suntex international Inc., creators of the First In Math Online Program, which is also located in Easton. "I couldn't wait to go," smiled David, "It was really cool and I got to meet Mr. Sun. He even showed me some new games they are working on." ÒMeeting youngsters like David is rewarding for me, too,Ó says Sun, who often travels to award ceremonies at top FIM schools across the country. ÒThey are bright, focused and so excited to receive a certificate or medal as a reward for their effortsÑand their enthusiasm is my reward.Ó
Photo © Suntex International Inc. California Team Zigzags It's Way to the Top LA MESA, CAÑNorthmont Elementary's Team "Zigzag6ca" held a party to reward students who completed both rounds of the Show What You Know module. Several students posed with their K&S certificates during the celebration. "I must say that they were certainly excited for the rest of the day," exclaimed their teacher and Team Leader, Sheri Galbreath, who added that the 5th grade team is currently ranked number one in the nation. Galbreath also had a special surprise for team member Sang Choi—number one ranked player in the nation, all grades—a gold "24 game" medal. "He is so proud of it," she said. "Our buddy class at Murray Manor School has really been inspired, and their top scorer is Sang's buddy, 4th-grader Yotam Boiani. Sang really pumped him up about First in Math during our last field trip together. I have got to say that Sang is truly a First In Math ambassador...He has shown the games to all of the other classes in our school, as well as to their teachers, and loves to spread the word. What a motivator!! He is so humble about his achievements and gets pleasure trying to motivate others. I am grateful to be able to work with him in my classroom this year."
Photos by S. Galbreath Perrysville First Graders Earn State Honors PITTSBURGH, PAÑPerrysville students on Team ÒBamboo8paÓ are statewide standouts this year with the First In Math Program, placing 5th among all first-grade online teams participating in Pennsylvania. Students received awards from First In Math Vice President Barbara Asteak, local FIM representative Mark Losey and Principal Elaine Obidowski, on Wednesday, December 7 during a special ÒFirst In MathÓ assembly.
ÒThe students have loved First In Math from day one and they were so excited to start the new season this year,Ó stated teacher Doris Stupka, who is one of the largest supporters of FIM at Perrysville. ÒWe adopted it two years ago as a way to improve our studentsÕ math performance, and saw immediate improvement in our math scores on standardized tests and state assessment after our first year with the program.Ó Perrysville Elementary is no stranger to outstanding academic achievement. The school was named a Blue Ribbon School in 2004 by the U.S. Department of Education. The Blue Ribbon Award is part of the No Child Left Behind legislation, and honors public and private K-12 schools that are academically superior in their state, or demonstrate superior gains in academic achievement. Stupka attributes the studentsÕ achievement along with the schoolÕs success to the FIM program. "It's the best computer program we have seen for teaching these skills because it adapts to each studentsÕ abilities,Ó she said. ÒThrough using this program we continue to have very high achievement in math.Ó FIM currently includes more than 330,000 students from over 9,300 online teams in 25 states this year. Enxhi Rrapi and Classmates Receive Awards for National Math Achievement PHILADELPHIA, PAÑIt was truly a festive day before Thanksgiving break for students at Richmond School in Central East Philadelphia. Fifth-grader Enxhi Rrapi received a national award as she attained first place in the U.S.A. with the First In Math¨ Online Program on Wednesday, November 23. She competed against over 300,000 elementary and middle school studentsÑoutranking sixth, seventh and eighth-graders! Rrapi earned over 12,947 award stickers since September for solving increasingly more difficult math problems. Her classmates were also recognized as national standouts, as they are currently ranked 5th nationally out of 9300 teams. Rrapi and her classmatesÕ accomplishment made the 5 oÕclock news! CBS Channel 3 News visited Richmond to capture the award event, and interview Rrapi and her teammates, along with her teacher Peggy Marie Savage and Principal, Dr. Anthony Ciampoli.
ÒEnxhi comes into school early every morning to work on First In Math,Ó stated Savage, RrapiÕs ESL teacher and First In Math Team Leader. ÒShe came in one day and exclaimed she was finally #1 and her brother was #2!Ó The program represents sibling rivalry at its best as Rrapi has surpassed her brother, Renajd, former Richmond student and one of the #1 national First In Math players last year. Renajd is a sixth-grade student at Masterman Middle School this year, and he is again one of the top First In Math players in the nation. ÒI am so excited for all of my students,Ó added Savage, ÒWe are only a few thousand points behind the top team in the state and we are pumping ourselves up to become #1 by the end of November!Ó
The School District of Philadelphia has implemented the program in all of its elementary and middle schools for the third consecutive year through a grant from the National Science Foundation and Urban Systemic Program. District math instructors credit the program with increased student achievement on the PSSA (Pennsylvania School System of Assessment), as it has demonstrated regional results of double-digit increases in math scores among PhiladelphiaÕs fifth-grade and eighth-grade students. PA Intermediate Units and Suntex International Collaborate to Provide Statewide Consortium Price for First In Math A joint venture in Pennsylvania between Suntex International Inc., and the Pennsylvania Intermediate Unit system, has created a statewide discount or consortium price for their online program, First In Math. Montgomery County I.U. (MCIU) officials took the initiative in efforts to bring the discounted price of $6.75 per student to schools statewide this year. The cost of the program for schools outside of Pennsylvania begins at $8.00. MCIU queried districts in various other Intermediate Units on First In Math, and the feedback was only positive about the program. ÒI thought a consortium buy might give some districts the means to subscribe to the program who might not have had the opportunity under [the] standing pricing scheme,Ó said Marilyn Melstein, MCIU Instructional Technology Specialist, and one of the key people who worked closely with Suntex. WestEd, the nationÕs leading Regional Educational Laboratory, recently conducted a scientific-based study that shows FIM can motivate students and increase their achievement as measured by standardized tests. First In Math has made a tremendous impact throughout the School District of Philadelphia. The district is implementing the program for its third consecutive year in all elementary and middle schools through a grant from the National Science Foundation and the Urban Systemic Program. They have witnessed double-digit PSSA (Pennsylvania School System of Assessment) scores increase among their PSSA-tested 5th and 8th grade students in 2004 and 2005. As a web-based tool, the program can be played in school, at home or wherever students have access to the Internet. FIM is currently being implemented in 25 states and continues to become more popular among primary and secondary educators. But most importantlyÉkids love it. First In Math Online Program Education industry giant WestEd recently completed a scientific-based research study on the First In Math (FIM) Program in the National City School District in San Diego County. The evaluation involved 2,412 students in grades 3 through 6 and focused primarily on the impact of the FIM program on student achievement. The evaluation studied if the amount of time students spent on FIM affected their mathematics skills, and if participation in FIM had a positive effect on studentsÕ attitudes. A key finding of the study was that FIM had a statistically significant effect on both California Standards Test (CST) and California Achievement Test (CAT/6) student achievement scores across all grade levelsÑproving that First In Math is a motivating tool to increase student achievement! Teachers, interviewed by WestEd, overwhelmingly agreed that students enjoyed the program and made time to use the FIM website. In addition, 72% of students surveyed agreed with the statement Òmath lessons are fun.Ó To learn more, visit CASE STUDIES. To dowload a PDF file of the full, 40-page report, CLICK HERE. (436k) First In Math¨ National Award Winners honored at event in Philadelphia! Nationwide only 11 students earned more than 10,000 stickers individually in the 2004/2005 First In Math¨ program. These determined players were presented with plaques and medals to recognize their amazing achievement June 6 in Philadelphia. Pictured below, left to right, front row: Alexa Curto; Gina Robinson; Vladimir Flys; Andre Fowler; Shanak Patel and Renajd Rrapi. Winners who could not attend the ceremony were: Karissa Liberatore; Stacy Candelario; Jennings Luu; Daniel Candelario and Sang Choi. Back row of photo, left to right: Robert Sun, 24 game inventor; Marcus Mitchell, representing Senator Rick Santorum and Paul Vallas, CEO of the School District of Philadelphia. Congratulations to these amazing students!
Our Lady
of the Most Blessed Sacrament Students from OLMBSS in Natrona Heights, Pennsylvania, have placed first in the nation with the First In Math¨ program, competing against more than 5,000 elementary and middle school teams in 25 states. ÒAs a math teacher, my main goal was to rid my classroom of the 'I hate math' attitude. I wanted to get my students to at least realize that math can be fun. Mr. Sun [Robert Sun, FIM inventor] made my goals come true,Ó stated Team Leader, teacher Colleen Armor. Her students earned more than 102,000 award stickers so far this year! To read the full press relase of this story, click here.
Superintendent of Schools Dr. Robert L. Paserba places a gold medal on the neck of Gina Robinson at a February 16, 2005 FIM awards assembly, as fellow OLMBSS student Russell Weleski and 24¨ Game inventor Robert Sun look on. Photo © 2005 Photos by Stoebener Baldi Middle School's Vladamir Flys Ranked 1st NationallyÑall gradesÑin FIM!
Seventh-grader Vladamir Flys has achieved celebrity status as a national math superstar with the First In Math¨ Online Program. FlysÕ face glowed in the limelight as he was awarded a gold medal in front of two TV news cameras for his incredible feat of becoming the #1 student in the entire nation in First In Math¨. Flys has surpassed over 105,000 elementary and middle school students currently competing in the program in 25 states. Vlad is pictured here, along with his principal, Frances Heinze (right) and Regional Superintendent Dr. Harris Lewin. ÒVladimir is a very exciting young man. He talks about how he loves this, he just loves to learn and loves new things,Ó stated Principal Heinze. To read the full press relase of this story, click here. Northmont Elementary Team Gets Buffaloed! Students from Team Unity5ca at Northmont Elementary in La Mesa, California show off some of the special FIM incentives they have received, including "Buffalo Nickel" collectors coins. "We have been doing a drawing once a week for the buffalo nickels. All students with 100 or more stickers per week go into the drawing and one name is drawn each week, " says Team Leader Sheri Galbreath. "We also make sure to tell them that this is a collector's coin...that REALLY impresses them! The kids are really excited about it, and we announce the results at our Friendship Circle on Fridays or the principal makes the announcement over the PA system." This year Northmont Elementary continues to build on their success in the First In Math program; in 2004 the school was home to the number one team in the nation!
Photo © 2005 S. Galbreath We Give Math Equal Status Read excerpts from comments made by Philadelphia School District CEO Paul Vallas at a December, 2004 press conference to announce PECOÕs $500,000 Energy for Education grant to the School District of Philadelphia. Click here to down load PDF version. First In Math¨ Becomes Part of School Culture at Hill Freedman
PHILADELPHIA, PAÑ Eighth-grade students at Hill Freedman Middle School continue to shine as math stars, with two teams, ranking 1st and 2nd in the nation for 8th grade teams in the First In Math¨ Online Program. These students have succeeded last yearÕs 8th graders who ranked 3rd statewide. Read full story. Georgetown Day School Shows Support for FIM!
To share their excitement about the First In Math® Program, several teachers from Georgetown Day School in Washington, D.C., marched in their Halloween parade as—what else—24 game cards! Back row, left to right: Holly Balshem-3rd grade; Kathrin Bachrack-3rd grade; Mary Lou Berres-Lower School Math Coordinator. Front row, left to right: Susan Loutoo-5th grade; Nicole Smith Jones-5th grade. FIM Spurs Success in Philadelphia School District! The School District of Philadelphia began using the First In Math® online program in more than 2,600 third- through eighth-grade classrooms throughout the district during the 2003-2004 school year. The first-year implementation of the program was a resounding success, with 2004 Pennsylvania State Standard Assessment (PSSA) results showing a significant increase in overall performance in math. (To read the full article, including school case studies and 2003-2004 proficiency statistics, click here. To download a printable document in PDF format, click here.) Bethlehem Area School
District Ranked Nationally Students at Fountain Hill Elementary School in Bethlehem, Pennsylvania, are excited about multiplication, fractions and even algebra! Michelle Sames' fifth grade class is currently ranked third in the nation among other fifth-graders and Shawn Collier's third grade class is ranked first among other third-graders! In November, the school and the First In Math® Program were the subject of a feature article in the Lehigh Valley's Express-Times newspaper, written by Precious Petty. (To download a reprint of the article in PDF format, click here.) To read the full press release, click here. At nearby Farmersville Elementary, Alexa Curto of Mr. Edward Yenolevich's fifth grade class is currently ranked number one in the nation across ALL grades! "Everything she does, she does to a T," says Edward Yenolevich, Curto's teacher. Yenolevich is very proud of Curto's accomplishment and is amazed about how many hours Curto and his other students spend mastering their math skills in the online program. To read the full press release, click here.
(To read a profile of Alexa Curto(pictured above, at laptop) that appeared in the November 29, 2004 edition of The Morning Call, click here.)
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