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First In Math News & Notes BishopÕs Visit Raises Level of Excitement for National Champions OREFIELD, PA—After an exciting competition involving more than 4,500 schools, St. Joseph the Worker School can finally declare that they are ‘FIRST’ In Math. During the 2009/2010 school year, St. Joseph’s six teams maintained an average of more than 131,000 stickers each, earning their school the title of #1 First In Math® School in the Nation, All Grades. According to Technology Coordinator Monica Patel, students began their journey toward domination early in the fall of 2009, after losing the top spot by a narrow margin in the final hours of the previous year’s competition. “This is a very committed group of students, willing to put in the extra time—both at home and after school in the lab—that it took to make this kind of success possible,” says Patel.
Top photo, left to right: Principal Jody Myers; The Most Reverend John O. Barres, Bishop of Allentown; Monsignor Wargo and Robert Sun. Below: Students from each team had their picture taken with Bishop Barres, Sun and other Guests of Honor. Special Guest of Honor, The Most Reverend John O. Barres, Bishop of Allentown, helped pass out awards and congratulate students. First In Math® Online Program creator Robert Sun also attended the celebration. Other Guests of Honor included Assistant Superintendent Sister Anita Patrick Gallagher, IHM, Assistant Superintendent Sister Roberta Peters, IHM and Assistant Superintendent Sister Ann Monica Bubser, IHM. Principal Jody Myers accepted a commemorative plaque naming St. Joseph the Worker School as the #1 FIM School in the nation. For the second year in a row, SJW had a top player who received a gold medal and a coveted First In Math® All Star Award for placing 4th among the Top Ten players in the nation, all grades. All six Team Leaders received a special Proclamation and 216 participating students received a letter of congratulation from Sun, as well as Player of the Year badges. Sun also presented Patel, who spearheaded the school’s effort, with the First In Math® Spirit In Education Award. To the delight of giggling students, Bishop Barres briefly modeled a 24® Game baseball hat given to him by Sun for his ‘hat collection.’ The Bishop also spoke to students about the importance of setting and reaching goals. After the celebration, guests enjoyed a special cake featuring the First In Math® Online Program logo. First In Math¨ Online Program EASTON, PA—Already giddy with the anticipation of summer vacation, third graders from Team “Heat64PA” at Shawnee Elementary School found out they were in for a special visit—from none other than First In Math® Online Program creator Robert Sun. On June 10, excited students greeted Sun with posters welcoming him to their school, and performed a song they composed about First In Math.
Team “Heat64PA” shows off their First In Math® Online Program trophy. Back row, left to right: FIM Team Leader Denise Laudenslager; Math Coach Shawn Collier; Principal Josephine Galloway; Suntex President Robert Sun and District Math Coordinator Greg Hess. During the year, third-grade teacher and FIM Team Leader Denise Laudenslager incorporated the program into the life of her class by encouraging students to write a special song. According to Suntex Executive Vice President Nan Ronis, who also attended the celebration, this kind of creative support from teachers and principals helps make a great program even better. “Anything that makes a connection with students, especially something creative such as writing a song, can help them relate to what they’re learning.” Laudenslager's own email signature reflects that attitude: "Math 24 isn't just for homework, it's a lifestyle!"* Team Heat 64pa ranked #28 in the US, #15 in the state and #1 in the district for the 2009/2010 school year. Principal Josephine Galloway says that as proud as they are of the students’ FIM performance, the evidence shows that increased math activity paid also off in the form of outstanding PSSA scores. District Math Coordinator Greg Hess brought greetings from District Superintendent Susan McGinley. He encouraged students to keep up the good work, and assured them that the Easton Area School District will continue to fund the program because of the high level of classroom participation. * Editor’s note: The term “Math 24” is a holdover from pre-Internet days, when many teachers used Suntex’s original 24® Games as a classroom teaching tool. Creation of First In Math® Rap Video Inspires Entire School BELTSVILLE, MD—With less than two months to go in the First In Math® Online Program competition, Math Resource Teacher Gale Waibel was looking for a unique way to motivate her Calverton Elementary students to work harder in the First In Math® Online Program. The Title 1 school was ranked 17th nationally, but Waibel knew they could do better. “Motivating some groups of students to complete assignments can at times be a challenge, but as soon as they heard about the First In Math rap project our students were excited.”
The Rap project actually began as a writing assignment 6th-grade teacher Nicole Baum created to get her students excited to take the state test. "It was the perfect assignment for the kids to practice their language arts and math skills simultaneously," says Baum. A group of boys in Baum’s homeroom began working together and practicing during their lunch period. Soon several other students joined the effort, each contributing ideas. Waibel met with some resistance when she insisted they write out their lyrics but once written, the students combined ideas, identified the refrain, and added more content. “There were both group and solo parts,” says Waibel, who explains that negotiations got interesting because most of the boys wanted a solo. It was decided that the fairest way to assign parts was to give the students with the highest sticker counts first choice, and suddenly students who were not particularly motivated earlier in the year began playing intently to have a shot at a solo. “In the quest for more stickers the boys started exploring different games on the site and as a result added more math content to their rap—and more math skills to their knowledge base.” The boys worked hard on their delivery and practiced the rap for other classes, taking to heart suggestions from students and teachers. According to rapper Isaiah Brown, they had disagreements, but made it work. “We worked so hard to earn this, but really the only thing we needed to do was work as a team.” The school, its teachers and students all became part of that team, and by the time the rap was complete, Calverton had become the 9th-ranked school in the nation—all grades—for the 2009/2010 school year. “Aside from the obvious benefit of improved math skills, the boys have learned other lessons in the process,” explains Waibel. “The boys realized that ‘give-and-take’ resulted in an improved rap. They saw that the extra practice time spent on their delivery made a difference. They learned to adjust when a member was absent or if they didn’t get the part they really wanted. They came to practices on time and worked to implement suggestions. They monitored each other and kept the focus on the rap.” Principal Mary Tschudy says she is very impressed with the way the boys took ownership of the creative process. The boys all agree that First in Math is more than an online program—and they all enjoyed creating an original rap that captured a lot of the experiences they had playing. According to one participant, “First In Math is cool, and ever since I got in it I have been getting good grades and my behavior has changed. I used to have a bad reputation, but I transformed myself.” Third Time A Charm As Dedicated Catholic School Student UPPER DARBY, PA–Eighth-grader James O'Shea showed incredible dedication, outperforming his peers across the nation to claim the title of #1 Player in the First In Math® Online Program for the 2009-2010 school year! O'Shea was runner-up last year, and this is his third appearance in the National Top Ten.
O'Shea, who attends K-8 St. Laurence School in the Archdiocese of Philadelphia, built a considerable cushion and led the field for several months, amassing 42,000 stickers as of the April 30 First In Math "Top Ten" competition deadline. "I was very determined to win and excited to start playing at the beginning of the year," says O'Shea. "I am going to miss not playing First in Math next year." Early on, teachers recognized that O'Shea was a special student. "I got to know him when he became involved in our '24' club and represented St. Laurence at several county and regional 24 Challenge® tournaments," remembers First In Math Coordinator Ann Char. "The First in Math program followed, and from the beginning James set goals for himself. In 6th grade he was ranked 3rd in the nation; in 7th grade, he was 2nd and he was determined to land on top during his last year at St. Laurence." According to Char, O'Shea excels at most everything he tries. "James is self-motivated, inquisitive, and determined. President of our student council, he gives of his time and talents to service projects and sets an example for our students by his behavior in and out of the classroom. I can honestly say that James is the finest student I have met in more than 30 years in education, and I know that he will continue to excel in high school and beyond. We will miss him!" O'Shea will be attending Devon Preparotory School in the fall. When First In Math program creator Robert Sun asked him which colleges he might be interested in, O’Shea responded that he hopes to attend Princeton. St. Laurence School is ranked #5 in the nation, All Grades, with 14 teams averaging more than 81,000 stickers each. In addition, teams "mayan37pa" and "heat10pa" ranked 9th and 10th respectively in the Top Ten Teams All Grades category. Throughout the competition, Principal Sister Helen Thomas McCann regularly encouraged the teams and students over the loudpseaker, and gave updates on their progress. As the Number One Player in the Nation, O'Shea will receive the Grand Prize—an Apple® iTouch®. His nearest competitor, Valentino Papa, from Masterman MS/HS School in the School District of Philadelphia, earned 37,682 stickers, while the third place finisher from Asa Packer ES in the Bethlehem School District earned 37,138. Students from Pennsylvania, Maryland, Texas and California make up the Top Ten, and all will receive a 2009-2010 FIM National All Star Award. Teachers Share First In Math¨ Success Stories at NCTM Conference SAN DIEGO, CA—Representatives from Suntex International, makers of the 24® Game and the First In Math® Online Program, traveled to sunny San Diego for the 2010 NCTM (National Council of Teachers of Mathematics) Annual Meeting on April 21. The exposition featured vendors, presentations, workshops, and mini-courses covering all grade levels. This year's theme was “Connections: Linking Concepts and Content.” The colorful Suntex booth incorporated six computers, allowing educators to fully experience the First In Math program as a student or teacher. Suntex President and CEO Robert Sun says he always looks forward to attending to “share our vision of the success students can achieve with those who may never have heard of us,” and also to hear what loyal users of the First In Math program have to say. “When educators say to me ‘First In Math Online is the fastest, surest, most enjoyable way for our students to get good at math’ or ‘There is not anything else in the marketplace that holds a candle to this wonderful program,’ I know we’re on the right track, explains Sun, who is proud that such sentiments are echoed by education professionals across the country. (see Letters) There were also stories that moved Sun—among them an Orange County, Florida teacher explaining that her ‘hotel’ kids (from families who have recently lost their homes due to tough economic times) are staying in school an extra two hours at day’s end to work on the First In Math program. Helping to spread the word were Vice President Barbara Asteak, customer specialists Nancy Kane, Cynthia Anderson and FIM Texas rep Tony Morrow, who loves doing site-demos. Kane also handed out three 24® Game/ First In Math® daily prizes, won by teachers from Nova Scotia (Canada), Arizona and California. Wisconsin School District Celebrates First In Math Success BELOIT, WI—“Our academic scores have soared since we began the First In Math® Online Program,” says Steve McNeal, Director of Curriculum for the Beloit School District. All twelve of the district’s elementary schools are participating in the program, and what started out as a program for gifted elementary students has turned into a district-wide program for all students. “We couldn't be happier,” says McNeal.
Pictured L to R, back row: District Director of Curriculum Steve McNeal; Suntex VP Barbara Asteak; Robinson ES Principal Sam Carter and Superintendent Milton Thompson. Front Row: Top Wisconsin 5th Grader Gustavo Badillo and top Wisconsin player, all grades, 3rd Grader Jorge Jurado. Suntex International Vice President, Barbara Asteak, recently visited Robinson Elementary School, home to the #1 third- and fifth-grade teams in Wisconsin. “When I arrived at the school I was ushered into a computer lab full of third grade students using the First In Math® program. I was excited to see so many students working way beyond grade level,” says Asteak. “After walking around the lab and talking to several students I noticed something unique about this group—they were all boys.” Principal Sam Carter explains that Robinson has all-girl or all-boy classrooms. “We based our decision to separate students by gender on the research of Dr. Leonard Sax.” According to Carter, the ‘boy’ classrooms have earned all of the First In Math Team of the Week honors so far. “But last week one of our girls was Player of the Week,” smiles Carter, adding that a pizza party awaits the first all-girl Team of the Week. Girls have dominated the First In Math National Top Player category for the past three years. (see FIM Champions Hall of Fame) Shawn Petitt’s fifth-grade team, Sumo4wi, currently the #1 team in Wisconsin, recently celebrated the achievement of their goal—100,000+ stickers—with a pizza party. Petitt is currently the #1 Team Leader Player in the state, and Robinson Elementary is home to the #1 player in the state, Jorge Jurado, who happens to be a third grader. One Billion Problems Solved on First In Math® Website!
EASTON, PA—It’s official! Participants in the First In Math® Online Program have cumulatively solved more than 1 BILLION math problems on the FIM site since August 1, 2009! First In Math players include students in kindergarten through eighth grade, teachers and Family Link™ members from 44 states and three other countries. As players solve math problems and earn electronic stickers you can watch the number climb dramatically throughout the day—even on weekends, holidays and most recently, snow days. It takes an average of three math problems to earn one sticker, meaning that the “Billion Problems Solved” threshold was crossed March 4, 2010 at 8:48 AM when the sticker count reached 333,333,334. Thank you to everyone who is participating this year. You have shown incredible enthusiasm for mathematics—and the First In Math® Online Program. Now, keep on playing—current User IDs are valid until July 31, 2010! Schools Generate Enthusiasm for Math by Celebrating Achievement PHILADELPHIA, PA—Across the School District of Philadelphia, and indeed across the nation, many schools who participate in the First In Math® Online Program are cheering on fellow teachers and students. On January 22, Morris E. Leeds Middle School held a small award ceremony to celebrate its success in the program. Principal Stephanie Mitchell says that her school's FIM teams currently average a whopping 59,000 stickers each—certainly a cause for celebration. Leeds is currently is #4 in the nation and #2 in the School District of Philadelphia in the Top Schools rankings category.
Mitchell recently accepted an award as Principal of the Most Improved First in Math School. (see related story) No stranger to awards himself, AMY Northwest Principal Marco Zanoni held a similar ceremony on January 25 to salute top students, teachers and teams at his school. AMY is currently is #3 in the nation and #1 in the School District of Philadelphia in the Top Schools rankings category. First In Math Ambassador Cred Dobson attended both events, and was inspired by the enthusiasm for math at both schools.
It's that kind of enthusiasm that makes First In Math creator Robert Sun smile. "When mathematics achievement is recognized and celebrated, it can lead to a dramatic change in the dynamic of a school's mathematics environment, helping to build the desire to excel in math," says Sun. Zanoni, who checks his school's Team and Individual Rankings on the site daily, wholeheartedly agrees. "Recognition does spur students on to greater mathematics achievement. Innovative features such as the 'Player of the Day' and 'Player of the Week' are incorporated into the program, making it easy for Teachers and Principals to recognize individual and Team effort.” Zanoni also donated an Apple iPod® that was awarded to AMY’s top player, Amir Winston, by SDP Director of Student Placement Le Tretta Jones. "It is good that we encourage the kind of friendly competition the First In Math program can provide—as long as we make sure students enjoy themselves in the process," reminds Sun, who firmly believes that math should be presented as an engaging and fascinating activity. "We do not encourage linking FIM to grades, homework, etc. The ultimate goal I hope we all share as math educators is to hear our children say, 'I love math' and know that they really mean it.” Photo copyright Matt Seaver-Studio XI Photography Northwest Region First In Math¨ Principal of the Year Honored PHILADELPHIA, PA—John S. Jenks School Principal Mary Williams Lynskey was named Northwest Region First In Math® Principal of the Year for the 2008/2009 school year. Lynskey was presented with the "Cred Dobson Achievement Award" by First In Math® creator Robert Sun at a special ceremony during the Northwest Region Principal's meeting held at the District office at Leeds Middle School on January 27, 2010.
"I cannot thank everyone enough for the wonderful surprise and this award," said an emotional Lynskey. "I truly mean it when I say that I wanted to win it for a long time. It is also especially meaningful because of the connection to Cred!" "Mary is very deserving of this and much more," says Dobson, former Academic Coach of Mathematics for the Northwest Region, noting that last year Jenks students made significant gains in test scores, and met AYP standards. Jenks saw healthy increases in PSSA (Pennsylvania State System of Assessment) math scores in grades 3, 4, 5, 7 and 8—with a 31.9 percentage-point increase in the number of 5th-graders classified as 'Proficient and Above'. "What is equally impressive is the increase in the number of students placed in the 'Advanced' category," explains Sun. The increases in the number of students scoring Advanced were 20.4 percentage-points in grade 4, 16.2 percentage-points in grade 5 and 12 percentage-points in grade 7. Sun also presented an award to Stephanie Mitchell of Leeds Middle School as Principal of the Most Improved First in Math School. Mitchell received a standing ovation from her peers, as she did last year when she was presented with a FIM Honorable Mention award for inspiring her students to excel in mathematics. Leeds is currently #5 in the nation and # 2 in the SDP among Top Schools. Past recipients of the Northwest Region First In Math® Principal of the Year award include: AMY Northwest's Marco Zanoni (2007/2008); Fitler's Willette Jones (2006/2007) and Hill-Freedman's Diane Hathaway (2005/2006), who is now Superintendent of the district’s West Region. Photo copyright Matt Seaver-Studio XI Photography Florida Fourth-Grader Shatters Last Year's Sticker-Count Record ORLANDO, FL—Last year, participants in the First In Math® Online Program earned 259,747,051 stickers. Amazingly, that number was surpassed on Wednesday, January 27, at 8:54 a.m. by Lorraine Claros, a fourth grade student at Durrance Elementary School in Orange County, Florida. “When Principal Abbe came into our room, my first thought was ‘uh oh, what’s wrong’,” says Rhonda Schad, Lorraine’s teacher. “But then I saw she had a big smile on her face—and she made the announcement. The whole class just couldn’t believe it. Now all Lorraine wants to do is First In Math!” “I do have a blast with First in Math,” agrees Claros, who will be receiving a 24® Game autographed by First In Math creator Robert Sun. Schad uses the program as independent work and allows students to log on before school and at other times during the day. “I also encourage students to use the program at home,” explains Schad, whose school received FIM through a countywide pilot program. “The program is very easy to implement and use.” Schad recently had a new addition to her classroom, a girl from Russia, who does not yet speak English. “There are so many things she can’t participate in yet, but this young lady loves First In Math—she is very competitive, too. ” Principal Abbe proudly reports that many Durrance teams are doing well in the program. “We are getting a trophy to award to our Team of the Week, and I’m sure that will be great motivator. Our students love looking at the ‘Rankings’ to see how they compare to each other as well as others in Orange County.” How high will the sticker count climb this year? Every time you log on to the First In Math site, take a moment to check the “Welcome” page (the one featuring FIM players). The bottom number shows how many FIM stickers were earned last year, and the top number shows the 2009-10 sticker count total in real time, (see inset) so you can witness the sticker count climb! First In Math® National Top Ten Competition Focuses Schools on Math EASTON, PA—At the midway point of the First In Math National Top Ten competition season, several hard-charging contenders from across the nation—and across the globe—are emerging. In the National Top Teams All Grades ranking category, team "disk77fl" from Indian Trace ES in Florida currently holds on to the #1 spot by the slimmest of margins over second-place team "space10nm" from Velarde ES in New Mexico. Marc Horowitz, disk77fl Team Leader, says that his students are focused on math and motivated more than ever, and are dedicated to FIM after the team he led finished in 4th place last year. Current National Top Ten Teams are: 1 - disk77fl - Indian Trace ES (Broward County Schools/S. Central) FL
Team "disk77fl" and Team Leader Marc Horowitz pose with their FIM Traveling Trophy. The National Top Ten Player All Grades rankings category is always closely watched, and may soon have to be renamed as the International Top Ten! Player "01hydra40ru" of the Anglo-American School of Moscow is currently in 10th place by a narrow margin. Team Leader, Rosemary Bowie, says her students love the FIM site. She reports that there are 28 active Teams in their district sponsored by the American, British and Canadian Embassies, including a team of third-graders that is currently ranked 19th among all third graders in the world! Player "21jade9pa" from Masterman MS/HS in Philadelphia is the current top player, with more than 35,000 stickers. Current "International" Top Ten Players are: 1 - 21jade9pa - Masterman MS/HS (SD of Philadelphia, Central Region) PA Top Ten awards are given in the All Grades category only, and include: Top 10 Schools, Top 10 Teams, Top 10 Players, Top 10 Team-Leader Teacher Players, Top Ten Family Member Players & Top Ten Combined Family Players. The First In Math National Top Ten competition ends April 30, 2010, but students who have a current 2009/2010 User ID have full access to the FIM site until July 31, 2010. Philadelphia School Celebrates Centennial by Honoring Contributors to Society PHILADELPHIA, PA—Inventor Robert Sun received an award for Outstanding Individual Achievement at the General George A. McCall Elementary School Centennial Gala on Thursday, November 12, 2009 at The National Liberty Museum. McCall Principal Carol Domb hosted the event, proclaiming McCall's Centennial Gala “an opportunity for current and past members of the McCall family, members of the local community, and local leaders to commemorate the school’s historic past and contribute to its future success.”
Cocktails and Hors D’oeuvres were served before a program honoring Sun and several other awardees, including United States Secretary of Energy Dr. Steven Chu, world-renown violinist Nadja Salerno-Sonnenberg and McCall alum Ao Kong. Sun was recognized for his dedication to creating "innovative educational tools that have fueled students' interest and excitement in learning." Philadelphia Mayor Michael Nutter served as Honorary Chair of the Centennial Committee, and delivered a passionate speech about the future of education in Philadelphia. Long-time CBS 3 Eyewitness News Anchor Pat Ciarrocchi served as the evening's emcee. In the early 1950's, immigrant children were assigned to MCall as part of a special program that taught English—the only such program in the US at that time. Children were sent to McCall from all over Philadelphia, as well as suburban areas, to learn English before transferring to other neighborhood schools. By 1953, McCall had as many as 200 students from more than 20 countries, including Ukraine, France, Japan, China, Greece, Puerto Rico, Germany, Hungary, Brazil, Cuba, Korea and African nations. McCall had become a place for children to learn how to assimilate, learn American customs, learn to read, write and socialize in the community. The school was at times referred to as a mini United Nations! McCall expanded in 1966, adding a new gym and auditorium. By 1970, the school had an enrollment of 700—and a long waiting list. Today, McCall is still proud of its diverse, multicultural population, and continues to be one of the most highly-regarded K-to-8 public schools in Philadelphia. "This Centennial Gala culminates the yearlong celebrations and historical activities for current and past McCall students," explains Principal Domb. "We are proud to celebrate 100 years of providing high-quality education to the children in Chinatown, Society Hill, Old City and Washington Square West neighborhoods." Domb thanked all of the volunteers, including Centennial Committee President Laura Palickar and the Honorable Judge Annette Rizzo, who chaired the Program Committee. Proceeds from a Silent Auction and the sale of McCall Centennial Commemorative Items go directly to the school's "Science is Elementary" project, which aims to strengthen McCall's science education program. Prince GeorgeÕs County Public Schools, Students Are Focused on Excellence UPPER MARLBORO, MD—Prince George’s County Public Schools Superintendent Dr. William R. Hite, Jr. gave a State of the School System Address to a crowd of more than 1,000 on October 6, 2009. Joined by County Executive Jack B. Johnson, elected officials, Board of Education members, students, families, and community members, Dr. Hite shared information on student achievement, supporting services, and the new school system commitments in Prince George’s County Public Schools (PGCPS). The program included testimonials from two PGCPS students. One of these students was sixth-grader Taivion Boone, an honor roll student at Rosaryville Elementary. Boone is the first African-American male at his school to be president of the Student Government Association, is the face and voice of the Rosaryville Television network, and plays trombone in the school band. Taivion Boone acknowledged the role of technology in the future of education, and praised teachers, urging them to continue to challenge, engage and encourage students. Part of Boone’s speech, which focused on a commitment to excellence, included mention of the First In Math® Online Program. “At Rosaryville, we are committed to improvement…on the path to excellence. In 5th grade, Mr. V and Mrs. Walters set high expectations—they pushed and challenged us. They made my brain sweat! But the hard work paid off; I scored advanced on both my Reading and Math Maryland School Assessments. Now my goal is to make the MSA 500 club in reading and math. I am certain that my 6th grade teachers, Ms. Bartlow, Mrs. Cooper, Mr. Davis and Mr. Grove will make my brain sweat even more! This year, we are participating in a program called ‘First In Math.’ My class ranks first in the school.” Boone, who is obviously excited about FIM, and his classmates on Team River93MD are also ranked #1 in the district, and rank 20th among the 3,440 Teams, all grades, who are using the program in Maryland. Valorie White-Jones, math coordinator at Rosaryville Elementary, says that Taivion is a wonderful student, who sets a great example. “I certainly appreciate the assistance that Taivion has provided in motivating other students to use the First in Math program.” “These students represent the many success stories that are happening throughout our school district,” said Dr. Hite. “More students then ever before have mastered core academic skills and are rising to the challenge of more rigorous coursework, meeting higher expectations for success, and pursuing higher education.” The First In Math® program is proud to contribute to the continued success of Prince George’s County Public Schools’ students. Math Rules At Sunset Lakes Elementary MIRAMAR, FL—The halls of Sunset Lakes Elementary School are emblazoned with beautiful, hand-painted murals depicting many eras of our nation’s history. A love of Social Studies is apparent, but under the surface—math rules! The Broward county, Florida school is implementing the First In Math® Online Program in all 34 of it’s second- through fifth-grade classrooms this year.
“A few of our classrooms were introduced to the program three years ago through a free trial and our kids loved it,” says Dr. Linda McDaniel, Principal. “The teachers saw how beneficial it was for our students, and I was able to purchase the program for our third- through fifth-grade grade students last year. This year, our PTSA provided the funding to enable us to include our second grade students as well. First In Math is an easy tool to implement, and the assessment features let us see where are students are.” Fifth-grade math teacher Beth Koestler correlates classroom instruction with various bonus games on the First In Math site to reinforce skills. “Playing the Passing Time game allows students to practice the calculation of elapsed time, a skill they often struggle with. The Equal Pay game reinforces decimals in standard, expanded and word form, and is another example of a direct correlation to state standards,” explains Koestler. This direct reinforcement of curriculum has resulted in dramatic performance results. “Weekly test scores have improved and as a result, students are more confident and enthusiastic about math,” according to Koestler. Already a high-performing school, Sunset Lakes experienced increases in the math portion of their fourth grade students’ 2009 FCAT (Florida Comprehensive Assessment Test) scores—including the number of students scoring at Achievement Levels 3 and Above*, which rose from 93% to 96%. Principal McDaniel believes the increases are due in large part to the fact that this group of students had the benefit of participating in the program for two years straight. “We really use the Know and Show assessment tool as we prepare our students for the state test,” explains McDaniel. “I like that I can get an overview of my entire school and see which classrooms are solidifying basic facts and which ones are doing well with the K&S word problems.” Science coach, Holly Morales, is overseeing the FIM program at Sunset Lakes this year. “Of course math and science go together. Our students need solid math skills to be successful in science class.” Daily monitoring of stickers earned and the awarding of Player of the Day and Player of the Week help to create a challenging and dynamic learning atmosphere. Morales says she is amazed at how quickly the school’s sticker count is rising. In just a few weeks, Sunset Lakes students have solved more than one million math problems. *Students that score in FCAT Achievement Levels 3, 4, and 5 are considered on grade level, proficient, or advanced. First In Math¨ Top Ten Competition Spreads NationallyÑLooks Globally EASTON, PA—Exciting new trends are emerging barely two months into the 2009/2010 First In Math season, according to FIM Account Manager Cynthia Anderson. "Every student in the National Top Ten is from a different region! Players from Pennsylvania, North Carolina, Louisiana, California, Maryland, Ohio, Virginia, Georgia and Wisconsin are joined by a Russian student from the Anglo-American School of Moscow.” * The trend toward broader participation is echoed in the National Top Schools Ranking, which shows schools from Pennsylvania, California, Ohio, Georgia, Louisiana, Iowa, Florida and Oklahoma among the top 20. The National Top Teams category lists teams from New Mexico, Pennsylvania, North Carolina, Wisconsin, Florida, California, Georgia and Iowa among its top 20. "In years past, Pennsylvania dominated the rankings, partly because the First In Math program was piloted throughout the School District of Philadelphia and had tremendous support there, and partly because PA schools know and love the 24® Game," explains Anderson. "Then California schools caught up, and before you know it—through word-of-mouth at math conferences and elsewhere—First In Math spread from coast-to-coast." No matter how big the First In Math program becomes, some things will remain the same, says Anderson. "Helping students build a solid foundation in mathematics will always be paramount, and we pledge to deliver an effective vehicle for deep practice that makes math engaging and accessible for ALL types of learners." * Editor's Note: Did you know that Teams from Romania, Australia, China, Qatar, Russia and Greece participate in the First In Math Online Program? Little Rock, Arkansas, Schools Join the First In Math® Party! LITTLE ROCK, AR—“I knew when I saw it that I had to bring First In Math® Online into our schools,” says Vanessa Cleaver, Director of Mathematics for Little Rock School District. This fall, more than18,000 LRSD students are being introduced to the FIM online resource materials, thanks to a chance meeting last November at the Benjamin Banneker Conference between conference chair Cleaver and Cred Dobson, FIM Ambassador. Though Cleaver liked what she saw right away, getting the go-ahead to pilot any new initiative requires persistence. At April’s National NCTM Annual Conference, Dobson introduced Cleaver and LRSD Math Specialist 9-12 Marcelline Carr to FIM creator Bob Sun, who offered to present a proposal at the Little Rock Leadership Institute on July 28. As a result of that presentation, and with support from Dr. Jeanne Huddle, Associate Superintendent of Curriculum, and Dr. Sadie Mitchell, Associate Superintendent of Elementary Education, LRSD adopted First In Math® district-wide for the 2009-2010 school year!
In late August, Dobson and FIM Support Specialist Nancy Kane flew to Little Rock to train Cleaver, Carr, Karl Romain-Math Specialist 6-8, and Beth Clifford-Math Specialist-K-5. Before the in-depth training session, Principal Nancy Rousseau treated Dobson and Kane to a personal tour of historic Central High School, made famous during the civil rights era. Having lived through that era and taken part in several peaceful protests himself, Dobson was particularly touched by his visit to the school which provides visitors “a true look back to the desegregation issues of 1957.” * The following day at the state-of-the-art Little Rock Technology Center, 41 of the district’s math coaches learned how to use First In Math® to improve students’ math skills. After reviewing the nuts-and-bolts of the program, discussion centered on encouraging students to take ownership of the learning process as well as motivational and management strategies. “It was a pleasure to work with such a warm, friendly, very receptive and enthusiastic group of professionals, obviously eager to learn about First In Math® Online so they can bring it back to their teachers and students,” says Kane. Cleaver and Carr were available to answer questions and help with the training. Dobson kept the atmosphere lively with his trademark sense of humor. Comedic talent aside, Dobson says he is very excited that FIM has come to Little Rock. “I’ve seen what this amazing math resource can do for test scores in other school districts, like Philadelphia and Pittsburgh, and when it takes hold here-well, the sky’s the limit!” Also important, says Dobson, is First In Math’s ability to break down stereotypes and other barriers surrounding math. As of September 18, nearly 5,000 players are already activated at 42 schools throughout the district. In the first several weeks of FIM implementation, Little Rock public school students have already solved 1.37 million math problems. *Central High School was the center of a struggle for desegregation that received worldwide attention. The Brown v. Board of Education Supreme Court ruling in 1954 stated that "separate but equal" was not providing an equal education for African-American students. In September of 1957, hostilities arose when nine African-American students tried to attend the then all-white Central High School. Those students became forever known as the "Little Rock Nine." PENNSYLVANIA LEADS NATION IN STUDENT ACHIEVEMENT GAINS; Pennsylvania Governor Underscores Importance of Continued Investment in Education HARRISBURG, PA—Student achievement has risen across the board in Pennsylvania according to a 50-state study of test results by the Center on Education Policy (CEP), an independent nonprofit organization. Pennsylvania was identified as the only state to see increases in student achievement in elementary, middle and high school from 2002 to 2008. The CEP report, which examined both reading and math performance, found Pennsylvania was the only state to reduce the percentage of students performing at the lowest levels while increasing the percentage of students who are on grade level. The percentage of students who are at the highest achievement level—Proficient & Above—also increased. “The most important point of this analysis is that Pennsylvania has made solid progress in test scores between 2002 and 2008,” emphasizes Jack Jennings, president of CEP. “Pennsylvania is also in the top tier of states in its performance on the National Assessment of Educational Progress.” After the August, 2009 report was released, Pennsylvania Governor Edward G. Rendell and actor/education advocate Bill Cosby joined school leaders from across the state to urge continued investment in education. “This report confirms that our investments in student achievement are paying off,” Governor Rendell said. “We need to continue to make these investments and build on this success, especially in tough economic times, rather than retreat.” Many Pennsylvania schools invest in the First In Math® Online Program to boost mathematics achievement. More than 25% of third- through eighth-graders in Pennsylvania currently use the program as a supplemental mathematics resource with great results, according to program Vice President Barbara Asteak. “We’ve seen dramatic increases in math PSSA scores in many schools where the program has been implemented. (see Fitler success) It makes perfect sense that performance on standardized tests improve, since the First In Math Program provides many opportunities for students to practice and master basic facts—an area that can be the Achilles' heel for many children." The First In Math site contains three KNOW & SHOW units that focus on word problems similar to those encountered on the PSSA (Pennsylvania State System of Assessment), as well as dozens of modules that strengthen problem solving and higher-order thinking skills. “We believe the First In Math program has played a significant role in the broad improvement we are now seeing throughout Pennsylvania,” says First In Math creator Robert Sun, who has focused on raising the achievement level of Pennsylvania students for nearly two decades. “For years, our 24 Challenge® math tournaments involved more than 300,000 students statewide. Since 2003, Pennsylvania students have been diligently practicing their math skills, solving nearly one billion math problems on the First In Math site.” During the 2008-2009 school year, 54 out of the Top 100 Schools in the prestigious First In Math National Rankings were Pennsylvania schools.
In 2005, only 303 (60.6%) of Pennsylvania’s 500 districts made Adequate Yearly Progress (AYP). Even though the benchmarks for making AYP increased over the years, in 2009 that number increased to 468 (93.6%) districts making AYP. “We’ve tracked steady increases in math proficiency almost everywhere FIM has been implemented, but with a larger percentage of schools in Pennsylvania using the program—some since 2003—the data CEP has compiled speaks for itself.” says Sun. A July 28 article published in the Pittsburgh Post-Gazette reported that scores on the Pennsylvania state math tests were the best ever. When grades 5, 8 and 11 were tested In 2002, only 51.6% were at grade level (Proficient & Above) in math. In the spring of 2009, when grades 3 through 8 and 11 were tested, 73.4% were at grade level in math. State Education Secretary Gerald Zahorchak called the results “remarkable”, noting that “we invest money in education and things we know are going to reap results, and that's what we're seeing." For more information on the CEP report, visit www.cep-dc.org. Lewis C. Cassidy Academics Plus School Honored For First In Math¨ Achievement PHILADELPHIA, PA—On June 16, First In Math Ambassador Cred Dobson and Program Assistant Molla Netsky traveled to Lewis C. Cassidy Academics Plus School to help honor Kara Keeneghan and her third grade class during an assembly program. The ceremony took place only days after Cassidy was honored at The School District of Philadelphia's Citywide First In Math® Award Ceremony.
"Kara and her class are extremely special and deserve a big fuss," says Principal Beverly Crawl. "Because of Kara's work, and her amazing students, we were able to be the #1 First In Math School in the West Region of the Philadelphia School District." Keenaghan's third grade class earned more than 82,000 stickers and was still going strong even up until the last days of school. "I have no doubt that some of my students will be playing during the summer," chuckles Keeneghan, who received a plaque for inspiring Outstanding Math Achievement. Her class of 22 solved more than one-quarter of a million math problems on their way to a #13 All Grades District Ranking, and a #4 Ranking among third graders in the State of Pennsylvania. Cassidy's top three students are: Eric Grant; Mikeya Wright and Rayanna Hightower, ranked #15, #87 and #97 respectively among the Top 100 third grade students in the US.
Dobson commended the entire student body and faculty on their first-place finish in the West Region, and went on to challenge the students to be number one again next year. "Much like the World Series Champion Philadelphia Phillies, you are now the School to beat in the West," exclaimed Dobson. Netsky upped the ante, saying “If you all work as hard as you can I promise we will be here to honor you again next year.” Smiling, the retired teacher also zeroed in on the broader picture, adding, "I can’t wait to see your state Math Test scores!” Photos courtesy Matthew Seaver - Studio XI Photography Robert Sun Presents Awards to Nationally-Ranked First In Math¨ Students and Teachers in Archdiocese of Philadelphia Schools UPPER DARBY, PA—May 18 was a well-deserved day of celebration for Philadelphia's Catholic schools. Like their public-school counterparts, Archdiocese of Philadelphia Schools, as well as individual teams and students throughout the Archdiocese, earned state and national honors in The First In Math® Online Program. Competing against nearly 3,500 schools in 42 states, six Archdiocese schools rank among the Top 100 Schools in the Nation, including Broomal's St. Pius X School, who placed among the elite Top Ten Schools nationally.
James O’Shea poses with First In Math creator Robert Sun Upper Darby's St. Laurence School is home to 7th grader James O'Shea, the #2 player in the nation, all grades. This is the second year in a row O'Shea has attained National All Star status in the program. In somewhat of a FIM sweep, O'Shea's Team, NASA91PA ranked #5 nationally, all grades, and Team leader Mary Higgins is ranked #17 individually as a Team Leader Player.
Left,middle: Two mother-daughter duos accept awards for their Top 100 Family Link Ranking. Right: Superintendent of Schools Mary Rochford congratulates all of the participants.
Top: St. Laurence’s Team NASA91PA ranked #5 in the US, all grades. Kate Reardon, Sister Edward William Quinn (far right) and Team Leader Mary Higgins (back, left) join the students. The Archdiocese of Philadelphia currently has 182 parish and regional elementary schools, 20 high schools and five schools of special education. First In Math Nationally-ranked Archdiocese of Philadelphia Schools, 2008/2009 school year: #9 St Pius X School; #17 St Laurence School; #26 Immaculate Conception; #43 Mary Mother Of The Redeemer; #67 St. William School; #91 St Albert Great School. Numerous awards for schools ranking among the Top 100 in Pennsylvania were also handed out by Sun.
East Coast, West Coast Schools Compete for Coveted "Top First In Math School" Title OREFIELD, PA & LA MESA, CA— After a year-long challenge involving thousands of schools in more than 40 states, a mere 834 stickers separated the top two teams at the end of the 2008-2009 First In Math® Online Program Top Ten Competition. La Mesa California's Northmont Elementary School finished first, earning an average of 107,323 stickers per team. Second place finishers St. Joseph the Worker School earned 106,498 stickers per team. First In Math creator Robert Sun and Suntex Vice President Barbara Asteak visited Northmont in June to present the #1 School award, honor top player Gustavo Munoz, and extend congratulations to Principal Melody Belcher and Math Teacher Sheri Galbreath, who also received a Lifetime Achievement Award (view video). Veteran Team Leader Galbreath, who is retiring this summer, says that the friendly competition First In Math provides is a motivating factor for many students. "This year, our students set their sights on becoming the number one school in the nation after they saw St. Joseph the Worker School doing such a terrific job. It inspired us to work even harder when the competition came down to the final days—that competition was the 'spark' that really lit our fire, and empowered us to reach for the stars!"
While Northmont has finished among the National Top Ten for years, relative newcomer St. Joseph's did not even crack the top 20 last year, making their rise to the top even more incredible. On May 26, 2009, Robert Sun visited St. Joseph the Worker School to honor students for their second-place finish. "Our tiny school held its own against thousands of other schools across the country," says Technology Teacher Monica Patel. "After a months-long competition with Northmont Elementary, our mathletes have earned the deep admiration of Mr. Sun, and of everyone here at St. Joseph's and the entire Allentown Diocese. We love First In Math!" Patel can attest to the fact that students and educators alike can become a bit obsessed with the program, her son Shonak was 2006 Program Champion.
Photos Left to right, clockwise: Monsignor Wargo, Robert Sun and Principal Jody Meyers pose with top students and their mothers and Team Leader Monica Patel. Patel and Sun congratulate Mark Stenske. Team Leaders receive FIM Proclamations from Robert Sun. Sun presented the #2 School award, a Team Leader proclamation, and individual honors to St. Joseph's top players, including 4th-grader Mark Stenske, who ranked 8th in the Nation - all grades. Stenske's 30,599 stickers earned him membership in an exclusive club, the First In Math National All Stars. Only 10 First In Math National All Stars are named each year. Congratulations to students and faculty at both of these amazing schools! Western "Road Trip" Brings Inventor to Several California School Districts SAN YSIDRO, CA—First In Math Online Program creator Robert Sun visited San Ysidro Schools District's La Mirada Elementary School on June 3 to present Principal Manuel Bojorquez with a plaque signifying the school's Outstanding Mathematics Achievement in the First In Math program. San Ysidro School District Superintendent Manuel H. Paul was in attendance to congratulate students, including the district’s top-ranked team, HYDRA34CA, the #3 fifth grade team in the state. Later that day, Sun also traveled to nearby Ocean View Hills Elementary to present Principal Jose Valdivia with awards for the #2 and #3 teams in the District.
The previous day, Sun and Suntex Vice President Asteak attended an assembly for grades 3, 4 and 5 at San Marcos Unified School District’s Knob Hill, the #8-ranked school in California. Principal Steve Baum and Assistant Principal Carrie Geldard are huge FIM supporters, according to Asteak. “Knob Hill has a special FIM page on their school website, and hosted ongoing competitions to help generate excitement for the program.” El Camino Creek, located in the Encinitas Unified School District, was also visited by Sun and Asteak, who stopped by to congratulate FLYER52CA, the #1-ranked first grade team in the state. Team Leader Maggie Sprotte and Principal Carrie Brown were also in attendance. The Western “Road Trip,” organized by FIM California representative, Jill Henderson, began the morning of June 2 with a visit to St. Didacus School. Principal Elizabeth LaCosta and Curriculum Director for the San Diego Diocese, Patricia Bannon, welcomed Sun and Asteak to a school-wide assembly to honor students for their accomplishments in the program, including achieving the rank of #2 school in California. St, Didicus is also home to the #1 second grade team in the state, COAST24CA, and the #1 sixth grade player in the state, Mary Clare Shen.
School District of Philadelphia PHILADELPHIA, PA—Four out of the ten First In Math National All Star Top Player Awards were won by School District of Philadelphia (SDP) students, including General George A. McCall Elementary's Ao Kong, the nation's #1 player, all grades. Eighth-grader Kong, top player for the second year in a row, was honored at a spectacular First In Math celebration held to recognize excellence in categories such as Top School in SDP Region, National Top 100 Schools, National Top 50 Team Leaders, Top 50 Family Link Members and National Top Ten Team. Kong received a standing ovation when she was presented with a crystal award as the nation's top First In Math Player. Kong, Julia R. Masterman School fifth-grader Valentino Papa, and A. L. Fitzpatrick School's Alice Hu and Ryan Dougherty were presented with their National All Star awards.
Left to right: Ao Kong; Alice Hu; Ryan Dougherty and Valentino Papa. The math program's success and popularity throughout the district and surrounding regions prompted Mayor Michael A. Nutter to create a City of Philadelphia Citation, officially recognizing "All First In Math Award Winners" and saluting Philadelphia's top-ranked schools, principals, teachers, students and family members. (view Citation) Joy Diljohn, representing the Office of Teaching and Learning, read the Citation aloud. Mayor Nutter also issued a separate Citation to Marco Zanoni, Principal of AMY Northwest, the #1 FIM School in Philadelphia. "This was a a true celebration," says Zanoni, who was also presented with a Cred Dobson Achievement Award as the Northwest Region's First In Math® Principal of the Year in December, 2008. Beginning this year, the award will be open to Principals in all district regions. Previous winners of the award include Willette Jones (2007) and Diane Hathaway (2006). The standing-room-only crowd enjoyed a slide show featuring Philadelphia's FIM faithful before the presentation began, and was able to follow along during the presentation via slides displaying the winner's names projected onto a large screen behind the podium. Nearly 70 awards were handed out, including several special, unannounced awards. Baldi Middle School Principal, Eugene McLaughlin, received a special award for involving the largest number of teams at any one school in the nation (42). Northeast Regional Superintendent Lissa Johnson received a special award for the highest level of participation in the district. Robert B. Pollock Elementary School Principal Marilyn Carr accepted a plaque on behalf of third-grade Team Best36pa, ranked among the Top Ten Teams in the nation, all grades. The Team's leader, Neil Beitman, has had a third grade class in the National Top Ten-All Grades for three straight years.
Pollock's third-grade Team, Best36pa, ranked #9 among more than 27,000 teams - all grades - in the nation. Back row, l to r: Robert Sun, Team Leader Neal Beitman, FIM Ambassador Cred Dobson; Joy Diljohn from the Office of Teaching and Learning and Principal Marilyn Carr. "This is our World Series of Mathematics Achievement," explains Cred Dobson. The retired Mathematics Academic Coach for the district's Northwest Region chuckled all day about being Philadelphia’s 'unofficial, self-appointed citywide math coach,' but is serious when it comes to his love for the students. "This event was a huge undertaking, but the brilliantly-lit faces of the children (and their parents) more than compensate for the effort. All you had to do was to see the pride of the people in that room to know that this was SPECIAL for Philadelphia—and Philadelphia will always be special to us." FIM Support Specialist Nancy Kane, who helped organize the event, agrees. "The FIM community overall is a pretty amazing bunch, but the enthusiasm we see in Philadelphia schools year in and year out is incredible, and I am touched by how genuinely positive everyone is." "This is an extraordinary event celebrating the successes of our children," says Karen Kolsky, Assistant Regional Superintendent for the Northeast Region, summing up the thoughts of many who attended the event. Suntex Vice President Barbara Asteak says that the celebration was well-deserved. "Philadelphia's students, teachers, math coaches, principals and administrators have embraced the First In Math program—and have achieved the most remarkable results."
Some of the District's top FIM Family Link™ duos attended the awards ceremony (l to r): Jejny John from William B. Loesch School and her mother ranked among the national Top 50 as did Youcef Khial of Solis Cohen ES and his father, Kamel. National #1 Family Link Player Ting-Shan Chiu and his son, 4th-grade Anne Frank student Rei Chu, were in attendance. “It was a privilege to be at a ceremony where parents, teachers and administrators gathered from across the District to recognize mathematics achievement. I look forward to an even bigger event next year,” says Joy Diljohn, Director of Elementary Instruction Programs. See additional photos of the Philadelphia event! Philadelphia Award Ceremony photos courtesy of Armen Elliot Photograpy and Matt Seaver-Studio XI Photography unless otherwise noted. All rights reserved.Third Graders on Top in Easton Area School District. EASTON, PA—Members of Team Star57PA roared ‘we love First In Math’ in unison as the camera snapped their picture during a recognition ceremony on June 2. The Palmer Elementary School third graders had good reason to be all smiles—they are the top team in the Easton Area School District, where FIM is the math resource for grades three through eight.
District Math Coordinator Greg Hess is equally impressed by their effort, and says that this type of ‘over-achievement’ is one of the benefits of program use. “This class exemplifies the reason the district continues to purchase the First In Math program year after year,” says Hess. “The way students grab this resource and run with it is amazing.” District Superintendent Susan McGinley was on hand to award Player of the Year badges to all team members, and a special Certificate of Excellence to Laudenslager. She also gave special recognition to the top three players, awarding them gold, silver and bronze medals, respectively. McGinley, a former third grader teacher herself, remarked that the day’s interaction with Laudenslager’s enthusiastic students was wonderful, and is something she definitely misses in her administrative role. Lincoln Elementary School Sees the Potential of First In Math¨ Online Program. MOUNT VERNON, NY—"Lincoln Elementary gets what First In Math is all about," says Suntex Vice President Barbara Asteak. In May, Asteak presented Principal George Albano with a First In Math Achievement Plaque in recognition of the school's #1 status within the Mount Vernon City School District. Top Lincoln Elementary players pose with Principal George Albano (back, center), Assistant Principal Lyuba Sesay and FIM Team Leader James LeRay. Chelsea Pleasant (inset) was recognized as the school’s Number One Player. "Through a trial program, 800 students in 11 schools received subscriptions enabling the Mt. Vernon City School District to evaluate the First In Math Program,” explains Asteak. "Thanks to Principal Albano and his dedicated staff, Lincoln became very active in the program. Students on Lincoln’s four teams earned more than 135,000 stickers so far this year, which translates into more than 400,000 math problems solved!" The Westchester County school's top team, "Armor52ny" is ranked 9th in the state of New York, all grades. Top player Chelsea Pleasant is ranked #27 among her fifth-grade peers, and #62, all grades, in the state. Shelley Jallow, Mt. Vernon’s Assistant Superintendent of Curriculum, attended the presentation. “I knew our students would love First In Math. I’ve been playing the 24® game forever, so I was thrilled our kids had the opportunity to experience the First In Math Program this year—and I know they benefited greatly from it.” District Administrator for Mathematics and Science Satish Jagnandan was responsible for introducing the program to Lincoln, and received a plaque for Outstanding Mathematics Leadership from Asteak, who also presented fifth-grade teacher James LeRay with an acrylic Team Leader award. SPECIAL FEATURE: Maryland's Prince George's County Public Schools MARYLAND—“Prince George’s County Public Schools (PGCPS) are committed to graduating students that are college and workforce ready,” according to Judith Russ, PGCPS Elementary Mathematics Supervisor. As a way to ensure that students possess the mathematics skills they’ll need, many schools are providing access to the First In Math® Online Program. “Student response has been nothing short of amazing,” says Russ. College Park’s Paint Branch Elementary is home to the NUMBER ONE FIRST IN MATH® TEAM IN THE NATION - ALL GRADES - FOR THE 2008/2009 SCHOOL YEAR. The school is also ranked fifth in the nation, followed closely by Beltsville’s Calverton Elementary in sixth place. This year, PGCPS students and educators wanted to share their success with the rest of the First In Math® community! CLICK HERE to read stories from Paint Branch ES, Calverton ES, Glenarden Woods ES, Henry G. Ferguson ES, Bond Mill ES, Greenbelt ES, Perrywood ES, Tulip Grove ES, Valley View ES, Oxon Hill ES, and Oakcrest Talented & Gifted Center. Oxon Hill story has been moved, please click here. Confessions of a (First In) Math Fan! PHILADELPHIA, PA—My name is Christopher Curtis, and I am the computer science teacher at S.W. Pennypacker Elementary School in Philadelphia, PA. After six successful years teaching first grade, this is my first as a computer science teacher. One of my new assignments is to coordinate the school’s First In Math program, and I was nervous about how I was going to keep track of all the information for 280 students! I’ve seen some of our students use the site, and had watched a “24® Game” match at our school, but my experience with First In Math was limited. I loved math as a child and thought about becoming a math teacher before choosing to go the elementary route, so I decided to sit down at my workstation and play some of the games myself—and was immediately hooked. I wish I had this program when I was in school! I began to organize our school’s teams and was pleasantly surprised at the easy set-up. I decided to match up my computer numbers to the User ID numbers of the players, so it is really easy to keep track.
Left to right: Computer Teacher Chris Curtis and Principal Sharon Glodek; Top players Keeno Walker, Tori Carter (Kneeling), Brianne Pinnock, Ishmael Coleman (Kneeling) and Deshawn Graham. My students like the games, Gyms and Skill Sets, and are excited when new games pop up occasionally. They are very competitive, and because of this I designated April “First in Math Month.” Throughout the month they will be competing to get the most stickers, both as a class and as individual players. I copied all my students’ information on April 1st, and then decided to email the FIM help desk to get ideas on how best to track the information over time. Imagine my surprise when Mr. Sun, the creator of the program, replied to me himself—the same day! He gave me a few ideas on how to run my contest, and had site designers create a new way to combine my classes into one big Excel sheet. Some of my other suggestions were also taken under advisement for future consideration. I look forward to using the First In Math® Online Program for years, and am recommending it to all my colleagues, both in my district and elsewhere, as a great way to help their students master math. Editor’s note: Christopher Curtis holds a Masters of Education in Curriculum and Instruction, and was named a 2006 Local Wal-Mart Teacher of the Year. The First In Math® Online Program continues to improve and evolve through educator input! Send us your comments/suggestions via the Contact Us link on your Team Leader Home Page First In Math Students Cross Amazing Threshold EASTON, PA—This year's First In Math® Online Program officially began on August 1, 2008, and in only seven months, students reached an amazing milestone. On March 30, 2009, precisely at 3:24 p.m., the program's Total Sticker Count crossed the 200 MILLION mark! "Looking back over the past 19 months, students have solved more than ONE BILLION math problems," says First In Math creator Robert Sun. "That translates into more than three million hours of math activity on the site—much of it outside of the classroom." According to Sun, nearly 48% of time spent on the site represents children who play at home during after-school hours—a fact he is proud of. "That 48% figure tells me students are motivated to use the site on their own, which means that on some level they are becoming more comfortable with—and skilled at—mathematics." This is a message First In Math representative Tony Morrow is working to convey to educators. "I've been involved with educational products for years, and I can tell you that this math program engages students, encourages independent learning, and provides a framework for every student to succeed in math." Morrow offers an example: "Imagine handing students a math worksheet, then telling them to take it home and do it if they want to. What percentage would complete that sheet? Yet that is exactly what happens every day on the First In Math site—students log on and practice math skills in their free time because they want to." Sun also says he is proud of the diverse group of students who experience success with the program. "These students are not just a select group of math whizzes, they come from every skill group, from fragile learners to gifted, as well as the typical 'average student' in between," says Sun. “Recently, a teacher told me about a special ed student of hers who arose early enough every morning to allow for an hour of FIM time prior to catching the bus. By the end of the year, he was the top player in his school!" Married Teachers and Their Students Compete for First In Math® Honors ESPAÑOLA, NM—In the romantic comedy Mr. and Mrs. Smith, the main characters set off in the morning, as most married couples do, by saying goodbye to their spouse and wishing each other a good day. Then they go off to “special agent” jobs where each is out to get the other.
First In Math A Big Hit At Family Math Night AMBLER, PA—Students, parents and siblings turned out in large numbers for Math Night at Lower Gwynedd Elementary on March 3. Students and their parents sampled twelve different Math activities, and the First In Math Online Program was the top draw, according to FIM Ambassador Cred Dobson. "Math Night was a blast at Gwynedd! We had three tables with 15 laptops at our station."
Left: Lower Gwynedd students and their parents check out the FIM site on Mac laptops. Top: Staff Developer Toby Grosswald and Elementary Curriculum Supervisor Dr. Kevin P. McAneny. Bottom: Principal Lawrence J. Feeley. In addition to the FIM table, 5th-grade teacher Roni Goodman entertained students at a separate 24® Game table. Goodman, a teacher at Lower Gwynedd for 12 years, used the 24® Game with her students before the First in Math program was implemented throughout the district. “I see how my 5th grade students improve number sense skills—problem solving is easier for them because they know the basic facts," says Goodman. "My data shows this, as my class is soaring through the national ranks in FIM. Right now we are the top team in our district!” Dr. Kevin P. McAneny, Elementary Curriculum Supervisor, also attended the annual event, which seeks to involve students and their families in an evening of math fun and adventure. Another way the school involves family members is through a component of the First In Math program know as "Family Link". Family Link allows parents and siblings access to the site, providing a mechanism for students and families to spur each other on to greater mathematics achievement. Dobson's wife, Jennifer Hawkins, a School-Based Math Teacher Leader at C. W. Henry ES in Philadelphia, attended Math Night to help out at the FIM station, and liked what she saw. "Lower Gwynedd students show a real enthusiasm for learning and willingness to try new things, and I saw lots of encouragement and support from both staff and parents. Kudos to Ms. Grosswald for getting such a wonderful turnout at this math event!" Schools Turn Up the Heat with First In Math® Player Incentives HARRISBURG & KUTZTOWN, PA—Those who have not experienced a long, cold, Pennsylvania winter cannot truly appreciate how difficult it can be to excite and motivate students at this time of year. Amid single-digit temperatures, two schools have found a way to fire up their math students using the First In Math® Online Program's Player of the Day, Player of the Week and Team of the Week incentives. "Our students loved First In Math already," says Sister Georgiana Connell, of Holy Family School in Harrisburg. "But now there is added excitement every day, as students wait for me to announce the winner of the PLAYER OF THE DAY competition in each class. Many different students are able to win, and they all feel special!"
Justine Snyder’s fourth-grade Weisenberg ES team shows off the FIM Traveling Trophy. Inset: A third-grader shows off his Player of the Day VIP Badge. Technology Support Specialist Leanne Toth of Northwestern Lehigh's Weisenberg Elementary, feels the same way. "My students just love First In Math, and since we have a Traveling Trophy and Player of the Day badges, things have really been hopping! I announce our FIM results once a week after the morning Pledge of Allegiance, and visitors to our school have told me that as the names boom over the loudspeaker, you can hear the cheering of the different classrooms throughout the halls!" Incentives also do more than create excitement for students, according to Toth. "It is so uplifting to be able to do something positive like this for the students, especially during these weeks before the PSSAs (Pennsylvania State System of Assessment tests). Little do they realize that while they are in the hunt for the trophy or VIP badge, they are actually preparing for the PSSAs in a fun way—sure beats a bunch of worksheets!” The player on each team earning the most stickers in a 24-hour period earns the title Player of the Day, which automatically updates each morning and is displayed on the Teacher Home Page. The Principal's FIM home page displays the school's Player of the Week, and Team of the Week each Monday, offering more opportunity to distribute rewards. Player of the Day/Player of the Week badges and FIM Traveling Trophies can be purchased at First n Math's sister-site, www.24game.com, and many teachers, including Sister Georgiana, recommend using these awards. "It's so economical, and our kids love them." Some teachers also supplement FIM incentives with their own. "One of our fourth-grade teachers, Justine Snyder, uses "Snyder Bucks" as an additional motivational tool," explains Toth. "She places a 'dollar' value on completion of the various games in FIM, and then has an 'auction' of cool prizes that the kids can bid on with their 'FIM bucks'. As for the weather, Sister Georgiana says she is trying to conquer the winter doldrums herself. "I have almost reached 9,000 stickers, but wonder how some students score so high? Do you have any suggestions," she laughs. As a matter of fact, we at FIM do: Bonus Games! "Try the new 'Equal Pay' game," suggests Toth. "Our students love it." New Mexico District Honors Top First In Math Students ALAMOGORDO, NM—The Alamogordo School Board’s February 17 public meeting was more crowded and exciting than usual, thanks to several very special guests. Parents, grandparents and siblings clapped as Dr. Jann Hunter, Director of Curriculum & Instruction, presented the top-ranked student from each of the district’s 12 First In Math® schools with a gold medal.
According to Suntex International Vice President Barbara Asteak, the Alamogordo Public School District was one of the first in the country to employ the First In Math program’s Family Link™ component in all of its schools. Asteak, who attended the meeting to help present awards, praised the district’s leadership in the area of family involvement. Dr. Hunter also believes that family outreach is very important. “We definitely see value in giving parents the opportunity to brush up on their math skills and enjoy the First In Math Online Program, just like their children,” says Hunter. Alamogordo firefighter, Robert Moffitt, is the #6-ranked Family Link parent in the nation. His daughter, Mackenzie, (front, center in above photo) who attends Chaparral MS, is the #1 player in the state of New Mexico! Who gets dibs on the family computer? “Luckily,” says Mackenzie’s mom, “we have two computers in the house.” Honored Schools/Students are: Academy Del Sol - Dillon Francis-Peacock; Alamogordo HS - Brent Ahrens; Chaparral MS - Makenzie Moffitt; Holloman MS - Hanna Stitzer; Mountain View ES - Jonathon Littell; Buena Vista ES - Seth Torres; Heights ES - Jeffery Barnwell; High Rolls Mtn. Park ES - Trenton Tapley; North ES - Alissa Gonzalez; Oregon ES - Brittany Hymer; Sacramento ES - Pablo Ramirez; Yucca ES - Isa Vasquez After the presentation, students gathered to take photographs and talk about the program. ‘We like First In Math because it’s FUN,’ was the loud consensus. The new Equal Time bonus game and the always-popular Ten Wheels bonus game were named most popular with the assembled group. Newest Game On Money Pays Dividends for Pennsylvania Student COOPERSBURG, PA—Andrew Walters, a fifth-grade student at Lower Milford Elementary in Coopersburg, was the first student to try a newly-launched First In Math® money game called “EQUAL PAY.” As a bonus, Andrew received a crisp, uncirculated two-dollar bill (1963 Series) from program creator Robert Sun’s personal collection. Left to right: Principal Carol Mickley; Andrew Walters and Teacher Dale Beltzner.
The Equal Pay game helps students recognize and count all denominations of coins and bills currently in circulation, and, like many First In Math games, also contains a few twists that encourage students to think ‘outside the box’. “Card Of The Day” Contest Now Has THREE Winners Every month! NORFOLK, VA—Granby Elementary Math Specialist Laura Gray's First In Math® Team "Power74va" was one of first to win prizes in the Card of the Day contest in 2009. The prize package includes Player Of The Day badges. "This is my first group of students to earn the daily VIP award since we received our prizes," explains Gray. "The students especially love the badges, and wanted to show them off!" Pictured left to right wearing their Player of the Day VIP Badges are: Chigozie Weah (3rd grade); Jaycee Burton (4th grade); AnnMarie Webley (2nd grade); and Andrew Livingston (5th grade).
To enter the Card of the Day contest, all a Team Leader has to do is solve a 24® Game card, located on their teacher home page. Team Leaders are allowed one entry per day, per team. Many team leaders begin math class by group problem-solving the card of the day. At the end of each month, three winners chosen at random from all eligible contestants will receive one 24® Game Tournament Kit ($95.00 value) plus six FIM Player Of The Day VIP Badges. The other January winners are Team "Convex6pa" of Willow Hill ES in Willow Grove, Pa, and Team "Dazzle6pa" of Westwood ES in Pittsburgh, PA. First In Math Player Gets What She Wanted for Christmas DORCHESTER, MA—Rocely Guevara Gomez, an Honor Student at the Sarah Greenwood School in Dorchester, Massachusetts, wanted something unique for Christmas this year. What made the gift really special, however, is that she was determined to give it to herself. "I was often giving up in math until Mr. Cain told me about the First In Math® program," explains the energetic 6th-grader. "I also heard about the Top Player Grand Prize, and it seemed that everyone who was doing well had sticker-counts in the thousands, and I was only in the hundreds, so I wanted to improve my score." Rocely decided to devote herself to that task during Christmas vacation. Playing the 24® Game on the First In Math site helped her improve each day, and she set ever-increasing goals for herself. "I would decide on an amount of stickers to earn in one day, and never give up. I improved my score every day by 100 to 200 stickers, and I developed different ways to generate a set amount of stickers."
John Cain, Jr., Mathematics and Technology Teacher at Sarah Greenwood, describes Rocely as warm and pleasant—with obvious leadership skills. "Rocely works hard and is very diligent. She believes in herself, and it shows. She has made great strides in the First In Math program." Rocely usually spends at least two hours a day on the First In Math site. Chardas Freeman, Rocely's homeroom teacher, says she visits Cain’s classroom in the morning before class starts, and again at the end of school, in addition to playing at home. Rocely, who hopes to become a doctor someday, says she is proud of being a top First In Math player, and has some advice for her fellow math students. "You must be self-confident and say to yourself, 'I can do this'—because you can! It's the best gift you can give yourself!" School Students Solve ONE MILLION Problems On the Way to Math Success YEADON, PAÑIn the beginning of the of 2008/2009 school year, fifth-grade teacher Andrew Miller and math coach Marie Thompson issued a challenge to the students of Evans Computer Magnet School: solve ONE MILLION math problems. As of mid-January, 2009, they have met that challenge, solving more than 1,154,000 problems in the First In Math¨ Online Program! Miller and Thompson motivated students with the promise of a celebratory ÒOlympic Math DayÓ to be held in February. As a result of their efforts, the school is ranked #7 in Pennsylvania, and #13 in the nation in the prestigious First In Math ÒTop SchoolsÓ category.
LEFT PHOTO, l to r: Math Coach Marie Thompson; William Penn School District Superintendent Joseph Bruni; Principal Angela Ladson; FIM Ambassador Cred Dobson and Robert Sun pose with Adama Mariko, Monique Bediako and Jalisa Walters. RIGHT PHOTO: Andrew Miller looks on proudly as Tahirah Overton chats with inventor Robert Sun. On January 21, winners of the schoolÕs First In Math ÒFree LunchÓ Contest were invited to a special luncheon in the library. They were joined by FIM creator Robert Sun, who presented pins to the contest winners and medals to the top five FIM players. Principal Angela Ladson and William Penn School District Superintendent Joseph Bruni helped pass out awards. The idea of a Free Lunch competitionÑcounting stickers earned from Thanksgiving until the end of winter breakÑbegan four years ago, according to Thompson. "We wanted to motivate ALL students by giving them the same chance to win as those who already had high sticker counts.Ó It worked, as many of the finalists are students who started out at a slower pace, but quickly made up for lost time. ÒThese students began to realize that they could be successful with this program if they just gave themselves the chance,Ó explains Miller. ÒOne young lady who had less than 600 stickers at the beginning of the contest earned more than 1,500 stickers the first week of the contest.Ó ÒThe First In Math program offers something for all of our students, from fragile learners to gifted learners,Ó says Principal Ladson. ÒFIM allows every child to find success in math.Ó Thompson agrees. ÒStudents realize if they can solve the problems on the First In Math site, they can also do them in math class. WeÕre even finding a carry-over to other subjects, based on the success students are finding with First In Math.Ó In addition to the luncheon, Sun visited several classrooms, and fielded many questions from students, such as Ôwhy did you invent the 24¨ game?Õ (To help students succeed in math) and Ôwho picks the music for the games?Õ (Sun picks, mixes and edits the music himself). New Jersey District Eager to Roll Out First In Math MARGATE, NJ—"I am excited about First in Math coming to Margate. It will be great for us, and I am sure our students and families will embrace the program," says Dr. Kerri McGinley, Principal of Eugene A. Tighe Middle School and Director of Curriculum & Instruction for Margate City School District. McGinley says the program comes highly recommended—by none other than her daughter. "When I told my daughter that the Margate School District would be getting FIM, she was jealous, because she attends Ocean City Intermediate School in a neighboring district. She told me that when she attended 3rd grade at McKinley Elementary in Abington, PA, she loved First in Math."
FIM Ambassador Cred Dobson (back) is joined by (l to r): Susan Mock; Christopher Bruscato; Mauricio Saavedra; Laureen Cohen; Dr. Kerri McGinley and Audrey Becker. McGinley was a teacher & administrator in the School District of Philadelphia for 21 years before relocating to the seaside community of Margate. "This is a great place, but we do have work to do," explains McGinley. FIM Ambassador Cred Dobson met with McGinley and Curriculum Coordinator Audrey Becker in early December to discuss a pilot program for the online math curriculum supplement in Margate schools. "I have never seen a physical setting more ready to implement the First in Math online Program," says Dobson. All schools are equipped with the latest computer, networking, communications, and audio/visual technology. The district has five fully equipped computer labs with high-speed Internet access in both the labs and the classrooms. But more importantly, according to Dobson, "the staff's comfort level with the computers adds to their readiness level." Dobson has spent the last several weeks visiting New Jersey schools, and returned to conduct two professional development sessions for Ross ES and Tighe MS in Margate. He plans to return in February for an evening training session with parents that will be open to surrounding school district Administrators. "I don't think I've ever had as much fun at a workshop before or so quickly implemented what I've learned," said Joanne Adams, a fifth-grade teacher at the district's William Ross School. "My students are WILD about First in Math, and they are fighting to use the classroom computers. Two different students have been the Player of the Day, and they have both loved wearing the Player of the Day VIP badge. Tara, the girl who has it today, is in my math class. She really doesn't enjoy math, but she played for an hour last night and got 222 stickers. I'm so proud of her, but, more importantly, she is proud of herself."
Left to right: Eileen Midure; Amber Fitzgerald; Veronica Sanchez; Joanne Adams; Cred Dobson; Dr. Kerri McGinley and Dr. Dominick A Potena, Superintendent of Margate City Schools. School District of Philadelphia Principal MANAYUNK, PA—Academy for the Middle Years (AMY) Northwest School Principal Marco Zanoni was named Northwest Region First In Math® Principal of the Year for 2007/2008, and presented with the "Cred Dobson Achievement Award" by First In Math® creator Robert Sun. A special award ceremony was held on December 18 at the Manayunk Brewery & Restaurant, located in that historic northwest Philadelphia neighborhood.
Left to right: FIM Ambassador and award namesake Cred Dobson; Northwest Region Superintendent Pamela Brown; AMY Northwest Principal Marco Zanoni and Robert Sun. Zanoni, known throughout the region as a "hands-on" Principal, is enthusiastic when talking about his school's success, but more reserved when asked to comment on his contribution to that success. “I have no unique secret,” shrugs Zanoni. “We just believe in the First In Math program, and I have a wonderful team.” Zanoni and his staff employ many successful strategies to keep participation in the program high. Students can join the school’s First In Math Club, teachers maintain a weekly “leader board” showing top teams/students and Zanoni announces FIM rankings over the PA system. In December, a letter went home to parents, encouraging children to play FIM during the holiday break so that they would continue to sharpen math skills. "After break, we are providing incentives for top teams and individual players, including gift certificates from leading retailers, and the top three students on each team will be invited to a pizza party in January,” according to Zanoni, who funds the incentives by selling pretzels throughout the year. (see Tasty Award) Zanoni proudly points to AMY's continued test-score increases, and attributes a large part of his school's math success to participation in the FIM program. The percentage of AMY students who scored 75% or better on Philadelphia benchmarks increased 7.3% from October 2007 to October 2008, and the percentage of students scoring at the Proficient & Advanced level on the PSSA* tests also increased 11 percentage points, from 73% to 84%, during the same period. "We obviously share Marco's belief that the First In Math program helps students succeed in mathematics," says Robert Sun, "but no program in any school—no matter how good—can help students really excel without an involved Principal and dedicated teaching staff. We are honored to present this award each year to principals like Marco who exemplify the Northwest Region's motto, 'Excellence Is Our Only Option'." Two previous recipients of the award, Fitler Academics Principal Willette Jones and former Hill-Freedman Principal Diane Hathaway, now Assistant Superintendent, were in attendance, as was Northwest Region Superintendent Pamela Brown. Leeds Middle School Principal Stephanie Mitchell also received an Honorable Mention award for inspiring students to excel in mathematics. Mitchell was moved to tears as she accepted the award from Sun, Dobson and Superintendent Brown.
A surprised Stephanie Mitchell receives a big hug of congratulations from Cred Dobson, as Northwest Region Superintendent Pamela Brown looks on. *PSSA stands for Pennsylvania State System of Assessment. First In Math Presenters Attend Ground-breaking Benjamin Banneker Conference LITTLE ROCK, AR—Representatives from the First In Math® program attended the inaugural Conference on the Mathematics Teaching, Learning, and Research of African American Students November 13-14. The 2008 conference, sponsored by the Benjamin Banneker Association, was titled "Unlocking the Doors of Excellence in Mathematics for African American Students." "The conference was a wonderful way for teachers and exhibitors to share ideas and work on mathematics excellence, including ways to close the achievement gap," says FIM Support Specialist Nancy Kane. FIM Ambassador Cred Dobson, agrees, adding "The professional excellence of this event was a thing of beauty—kudos to Conference Chair Vanessa Cleaver."
Left: Minnijean Brown-Trickey and Nancy Kane. Right: Cred Dobson demos FIM to several educators There were dozens of workshops, a panel discussion featuring Dorothy Strong, and Dobson's own presentation, titled: "First In Math - A Proven, Innovative Online Program." Dobson maintains that the highlight of the conference was meeting Minnijean Brown-Trickey, one of the "Little Rock Nine" who helped desegregate Little Rock Central High School in 1957. According to Dr. Lou Edward Matthews, Editor-in-Chief for the Journal of Urban Mathematics Education and President of the Benjamin Banneker Association, “The conference was inspirational for us all! In the span of 48 hours we bonded together as a family—the Little Rock 300. This is what movements are made of.” Benjamin Banneker was born in Maryland in 1731. The son of a former slave, Banneker did not let race nor age hinder his quest for intellectual development. He was a farmer, scholar, mathematical wizard, astronomer and surveyor. At age 58, Banneker taught himself the science of astronomy; making projections for solar and lunar eclipses and computing tables on the locations of celestial bodies for almanacs. Also a social activist, Banneker wrote a long letter to then Secretary of State Thomas Jefferson—in which he made a case for equality for African Americans—that was given wide publicity. In 1980, the U.S. Postal Service issued a postage stamp to honor his achievements as the first African American scientist. School Reform Commission Presents Citation to #1 National "Family Link" Parent PHILADELPHIA, PAÑOn December 10, 2008, School District of Philadelphia Superintendent
Back row, l to r: Anne Frank Principal Ellen Cooper; SRC member Dr. James Gallagher; Northeast Regional Superintendent Lissa Johnson; SDP Superintendent Dr. Arlene Ackerman; SRC member Martin Bednarek; SRC Chair Sandra Dungee Glenn and SRC member Dr. Heidi Ramirez. Front row: Ting-Shan Chiu, #1 Family Link Player in the nation, and his son, 4th-grade Anne Frank student Rei Chu hold a First In Math trophy. ReiÕs mother, brother sister and grandmother (not pictured) also attended the ceremony. Family Linkª Father is First in Philadelphia! PHILADELPHIA, PAÑAnne Frank Elementary, the first school to pass the one-million sticker milestone in the First In Math¨ Program in 2007, has another ÒfirstÓ to claim: The #1 FAMILY LINK player in the nation, Ting-Shan Chiu. Ting-Shan is the father of Anne Frank student Rei Chiu, top player on the schoolÕs fourth-grade First In Math team. Through First In MathÕs new ÒFamily LinkÓ component, Mr. Chiu has been able to play at home and challenge his son. ÒI donÕt really try to compete with my son,Ó explains Chiu. ÒRei and I just try to earn 80 stickers a day.Ó Father and son have each amassed more than 12,000 stickers, and are only 30 stickers apart. ÒI like that FIM teaches persistence and logical thinking. ItÕs much better than most computer games because you actually learn something.Ó
Rei and his dad discuss FIM strategy during a visit to Rei's class. Family Link was initially piloted in the Philadelphia area with great success. ÒIt involves family members in the process of their childÕs education in a groundbreaking wayÑallowing a family member to log on and experience the program just like students,Ó according to Barbara Asteak, Suntex Vice President. Student and family member scores are combined for a Family Link total score, providing a mechanism for students and families to spur each other on to greater mathematics achievement. Father and son both enjoy playing the Ten Wheels bonus game best, but Mr. Chiu has to wait until Rei and his younger brother and sister are in bed before he gets computer time. Anne Frank provides a traveling trophy for the top Family Link players of the week. ÒThanks to my dad, we get it every week,Ó beams Rei. Currently, the Family Link component can be earned by any school with a minimum of five active FIM teams and an average of 10,000+ stickers per team. The national rollout occurred in mid-November of 2008, with more than 150 schools and several thousand teams qualifying. First In Math¨ Comes ÒFull CircleÓ at Lehigh Valley School OREFIELD, PAÑMonica Patel has experienced the benefits of First In Math for many years, and in many different ways. A Technology Teacher at St. Joseph the Worker School in Orefield, Pennsylvania, Patel is also the mother of 2006 FIM Program Champion Shonak Patel. ÒLife has come full circle," explains Patel. "When my son received accolades from Mr. Robert Sun for being #1 nationally in 2006 as well as #2 in 2005, I was full of joy, and today I am full of joy again because I am able to give back to my amazing students through this wonderful program. The Almighty really works in mysterious ways!Ó
Left photo, l to r: Mrs. Wagner, Mrs. Patel and Mrs. Woods congratulate Eric Fenstermaker and Mark Stenske. Right photo, l to r: St. Elizabeth's team torch43pa, along with Ms. Feichtel and Principal Sister Bonita Smith. St. Joseph students had great success in the First In Math program throughout the 2007/2008 school year. Third grader Mark Stenske earned the #1 spot in the state and 3rd place in the nation among third grade students, amassing more than 16,000 stickers. Classmate Eric Fenstermaker captured 2nd place in the state and 4th in the nation among third grade players with 14,602 stickers. The boys were encouraged throughout the year by their teachers, Mrs. Wagner and Mrs. Woods, as well as Principal Jody Myers and, of course, Mrs. Patel. A number of other Allentown Diocese schools and students were also recognized last spring for their accomplishments in the program. St. ElizabethÕs team torch43pa was the winner of the ÒAllentown Diocese First In Math Spring Contest.Ó Suntex International representative, Nancy Kane, presented team members with lanyards and medals, and awarded their teacher, Ms. Feichtel, an Outstanding Team Leader plaque. First In Math¨ Program Praised as Major Factor in School's Math Score Success PHILADELPHIA, PAÑJames Logan Elementary School Principal Mark Wilicki is proud of the accomplishments of his students, whose 2007-08 fifth-grade Pennsylvania State System of Assessment (PSSA) math scores jumped a dramatic 18 percentage points, to 62% of students scoring at Proficient and Above levels. Wilicki cites the First In Math¨ Online Program as a major contributing factor in their improvement.
Chezkera Wilson explores FIM strategy on the smartboard, during a Team discussion. ÒFirst In Math is a great tool," says Wilicki. "Not only does it provide our kids with mental math skills, but it brings them together as a team. Our students get excited about the competition and help each other learn the math skills needed to earn more stickers. In the four years we have used the program, our students have never tired of it. Even those that say they donÕt like math always want to do First In Math.Ó Classrooms brimming with well-mannered children in bright yellow shirts eagerly await the announcement of top FIM teams each week, as the school uses two First In Math traveling trophies to reward it's top FIM teams. "We are getting a new playground and new computers soon," says Wilicki, "but those two things may take a back seat to the competition for these trophies!" Webster ES Teachers, Students Value First In Math¨ Program PHILADELPHIA, PAÑMegan Pennisi is new to John H. Webster Elementary School, but not new to First In Math¨. ÒOne of the first things I learned when I arrived is that Webster is very competitive within the First In Math program, and that's exciting," says the Technology Teacher Leader, who has seen first-hand the kind of enthusiasm the program generates. "Teachers here value First In Math as a supplement to the standard curriculum because it provides much-needed practice with basic facts and computation," explains Pennisi, "All the students keep asking me is ÔWhen are we going to get started?' " Math Leader Nancy White and Literacy Leader Joan Naddeo encourage participation by awarding a trophy to the schoolÕs top FIM team each week. ÒItÕs hilarious," says White. "When we make the announcement over the PA you can hear booing and hissing all through the halls, and you can hear cheering from the classroom that wonÑitÕs great! Nationwide, First Graders Put the 'FIRST' in First In Math EASTON, PAÑThe top three First Grade Teams in the nation for the 2007-2008 school year were: #1 Team "Great78GA" from Brandon Elementary in the Atlanta Schools-K8 Reform District; #2 Team "Regal68PA" from Mayfair Elementary in the School District of Philadelphia's Northeast Region and #3 Team "Heat57FL" from Oakridge Elementary in Florida's Broward County School District. Each of these amazing teams maintained an average of more than 1,000 stickers per student. "Results like this across the country confirm that first-graders can use, benefit from and indeed excell in the First In Math program," says FIM Program Director Mark Losey. "The site's open-ended, self-pacing design is ideal for young learners, as some will inevitably progress faster than others, but none need feel left out." Interest in the competitive aspects of game play accelerates the learning process, as students strive to earn electronic award stickers. This is especially true in younger students, according to FIM creator Robert Sun, who points out that short bursts of game play make math FUN for young students. "If you can get kids to like math at a young age, you've won half the battle," says Sun. Content for students learning at the first-grade level ties to national standards, and hones basic skills such as adding, subtracting and working with patterns. In response to requests from elementary educators, a pre-test/post-test module called "Just the Facts" was added in 2007. Just The Facts tests a student's grasp of basic facts in addition, subtraction, multiplication or division while tracking each student's skill improvement. Suntex Honors Solon City Schools Mathematics Achievement on Many Fronts SOLON, OHÑFirst In Math creator Robert Sun and Suntex VP Barbara Asteak spent one very busy day making several visits in Solon, Ohio. "Solon is a district that focuses on achievement, that aims high," says Sun. "We think it is very important to give students that achieve at any level the recognition they deserve, as recognition is a key component of the achievement process." May 30 began with the 2008 Solon City Schools 24 Challenge event, held at the local community center. Tournament Grand Champions were: Joshua Eston, 4th grade Grand Champion (Arthur Road Elementary School); Jenny Yang, 5th grade Champion (Orchard Middle School) and Mark Fisher, 6th grade Champion (Orchard Middle School)
LEFT: 24¨ Game inventor Robert Sun congratulates Solon City Schools Tournament Grand Champions (l to r) Joshua Eston, Jenny Yang, and Mark Fisher. Eston was also the #1 fourth-grade FIM player in Ohio. RIGHT: Barbara Asteak encourages Joey Solanics, #1 FIM Player in Ohio, to say a few words to the crowd. Their next stop was a visit to Arthur Road Elementary School to honor the school's fourth grade championship FIM team “Agile42OH.” Sun spoke to students on a personal level, relating the story of his immigration to the U.S. at age nine, and his subsequent discovery that math skills were the key to acceptance by his peers. ÒWhen I arrived I barely knew my ABCs, and I was teased by lots of kids. But those same kids would eventually turn to me for help with their math problems, because math is a universal skill.Ó "Mr. Sun's story about finding acceptance by his peers through math is an amazing reflection of what occurred in my classroom this year," says Deborah Corbets, leader of Team "Agile42OH." "Joshua Eston started the year as a very quiet young man, but as his First In Math sticker-count rose, his self-confidence and the respect he was given by his classmates rose exponentially. That respect was not secured simply because he was a strong playerÑit was earned because he unselfishly gave up his own playing time before school and in the computer lab to teach classmates how to play many of the advanced-level Skill Sets. He inspired many students to spend time at home playing FIM." By the end of April, Eston had earned more stickers than any other fourth-grade player in Ohio. He was presented with a certificate of Achievement as the #1 Fourth Grade Player in Ohio for 2007-2008, and Principal Diane Terrell accepted a plaque honoring the Arthur Road's status as #1 Fourth Grade Team in Ohio. Corbets was presented with an acrylic Team Leader award. The last stop was Orchard Middle School where Sun and Asteak joined the entire student body gathered in the gym. Joey Solanics was recognized as the #1 First In Math Player in Ohio, all grades. His accomplishments were loudly celebrated by all 750 students, who began chanting “Joey, Joey.” Other top teams and players were also honored. Principal Mike Acomb accepted a plaque honoring the school's #1 rank in Ohio and #3 rank nationally. A special Team Leader Award was presented to Curriculum and Technology Resource Teacher William LaRiccia. LaRiccia also organized the district's 24 Challenge event. Boston Schools Celebrate Year of Mathematics Success! Mattapan, MAÑMildred Avenue Middle School, the top-ranked First In Math school in Massachusetts, was recognized at a Boston Public Schools district-wide First In Math¨ Award Ceremony on June 16. Awards were also presented to the Top 10 Teams and Top 10 Players in the state. Mildred Avenue Middle School hosted the event, and program creator Robert Sun was on hand to present special awards to Boston educators and students.
Left to right: Mildred Avenue Middle School Principal Kennietha Jones. Brian Newsom of the math office presents an award to Mildred Ave. Team Leader Jean Stinfort. Mildred Avenue Middle School accounted for five of the top 10 teams, along with Grew ES, Cleveland MS, Agassiz ES and Sara Greenwood K-8. Principal Kennietha Jones accepted Mildred Avenue's Top School award, and quickly pointed to the contribution of Team Leader Jean Stinfort, who's teams were ranked first and second in the state. Stinfort works closely with the school's Haitian and ESL students. "Jean is very dedicated and clearly understands the impact FIM can have on this particular student population," says Jones. "He worked tirelessly with students, often leaving school late. One night I answered a call from a worried parent looking for their child. It turns out that the students were still in the building using FIM with Mr. Stinfort!" Sun presented Brian Newsom, Sr. Program Director-Secondary Math, with a Suntex Spirit In Education award. Sherry Sadjak accepted a Spirit award for Linda Davenport, Sr. Program Director-Elementary Math, who was unable to attend. Principals Ron Jackson of Grew ES, Andrew Tuite of Cleveland MS and Alfredo Nunez of Agassiz ES attended the celebration. "Boston's Public Schools experienced the power of First In Math this year, and what a year it was," says Suntex Executive Vice President Nan Ronis. "Schools embraced the program and generated a lot of heat, propelling several of them to top state and national rankings." The top three players in Massachusetts are girls, according to Ronis. Top-ranked player Marion Ali, from Cleveland Middle School, is admired by her teachers and fellow students, who use words like 'wonderful' and 'amazing' to describe the quiet 8th grader.
Left photo, left to right: Robert Sun; Mildred Ave. students Landchester Laguerre (#6 in MA) and Maillekenfa St. Jules (#3 in MA); Brian Newsom and Marion Ali, #1 player in Massachusetts. Right photo, back row: "Glider1MA" Team Leader Meghan McKinnan of Grew ES; Grew Principal Ronald Jackson; Robert Sun and Brian Newsom. Front row: Top students Scotty Loujame; Tianna White and Dave LaPlante. "It's great to see that girls are being encouraged to explore mathematics here in Boston," adds Sun. "First In Math explodes many math stereotypes, including the one about boys vs. girlsÑwe find the ratio of girls and boys who experience success in the program to be comparable." Girls have ruled as FIM National Champions for past two years. (see FIM Hall of Fame) In 2007, girls won both the team and individual categories of the Siemens Competition for high-school students in math, science & technology for the first time in the competition's history. Isha Jain, a former "24 Challenge" champion won the individual prize for her biology project. Philadelphia Student Ranked #1 in the Nation in the First In Math¨ Online Program PHILADELPHIA, PAÐSeventh-grader Ao Kong outperformed nearly 250,000 of her peers across the nation to claim the title of #1 Player in the First In Math¨ Online Program for the 2007-2008 school year! First In Math creator Robert Sun presented Kong with a "First In Math National All-Star" award, and the Grand Prize, an Apple iTouch¨.
Photo, left to right: First In Math creator Robert Sun; Kong shows off her Apple iTouch¨ and National All Star award; School-Based Teacher Leader Eleanor Castelberry and Principal Carol Domb. Kong and her parents were invited to a special luncheon at the award-winning Fountain Restaurant located in the Four Seasons Hotel in Philadelphia, along with Sun, Suntex VP Barbara Asteak, FIM School District of Philadelphia liason Cred Dobson, McCall Elementary School-Based Teacher Leader Eleanor Castelberry and Principal Carol Domb. According to Castleberry and Domb, Ao is a great student in all subject areas, not just math. AoÕs father says that his daughter was very determined, and spent hours on the computer every night. When asked if winning the Apple iTouch¨ was the motivation for her incredible achievement Ao answered, ÒNo. I just wanted to be #1.Ó She says she planned her strategy at the beginning of the school year, and never waivered. Kong, who attends General George A. McCall Elementary in the School District of Philadelphia's Central City Region, led the field for several months, amassing 33,511 stickers as of the April 30 First In Math "Top Ten" competition deadline. Kong bested her nearest competitor, from Sandhill School in Wisconsin, by 2,683 stickers. Students from Pennsylvania, Maryland, New Jersey, Wisconsin and California make up the remaining Top Ten, and all will receive a FIM National All Star Award. Kong also achieved National All-Star status last year, finishing among the Top Ten players in the nation as a sixth-grader. (read story) "During our conversation, Ao and I discovered some pretty amazing similarities," explains Sun. "I moved to Philadelphia from Shanghai, China when I was nine, as did Ao. Both her parents are physicians, as were mine. I love chocolate, and my favorite color is blue," says Sun. "Me too," says Kong, momentarily flashing her trademark reserved smile. First In Math Part of the "Miracle" at Pittsburgh Catholic School PITTSBURGH, PAÑSometimes referred to by it's Principal as 'the Miracle on Greenridge Drive,' St. Gabriel of the Sorrowful Virgin School is home to the nation's #1 eighth-grade First In Math Team for the 2007-2008 school year. Team "Boss50PA" is also ranked #7 nationally, all grades, according to Suntex Vice President Barbara Asteak. Asteak paid a visit to the school in May to attend a special celebration, along with FIM Program Director Mark Losey, himself a Pittsburgh native. "This is one of our school's proudest moments," said Principal Barbara Sawyer.
Left: Team Leader Lois Doerfler and Brett Dadig. Right: Team Boss50PA, which also included two advanced 5th graders and several 6th and 7th graders, poses along with Principal Barbara Sawyer (back row). As the only non-tuition school in the Diocese of Pittsburgh, St. Gabriel is demanding of any curriculum supplement it chooses. "What a great teaching tool First In Math has become" says Sawyer, pointing out that all five of their teams had 100% activation. "We wish to applaud Suntex for providing an outstanding way to motivate students so thoroughly that they beg our math teacher to teach them more!" "Boss" Team Leader Lois Doerfler agrees, explaining that interest in the competition accelerates the learning process. "Because students want to solve more levels of the game, they're actually asking to learn something in math," says Doerfler. Brett Dadig, the team's # 1 player, has earned more than 18,300 stickers since September. "Our mathematics curriculum is designed to give students skills they need to be successful in meeting challenges of the present and future. As this school year draws to a close, we consider the work our students accomplished with the First In Math program to be one of our academic highlights," says Sawyer. The Allegheny county school has also participated in many local 24 Challenge¨ tournaments, and in 2003 and 2004, St. Gabriel students made it to the semi-final round of the Pennsylvania State Championships. Robert Sun Honored with 2008 Asian Entrepreneur of the Year Award LOS ANGELES, CAÑRobert Sun, inventor of the 24¨ Game and creator of the First In Math¨ Online Program was presented with a 2008 Asian Entrepreneur of the Year Award at a May 23rd event hosted by Asian Enterprise Magazine. Sun, who serves as Chairman and CEO of Suntex International Inc., was handpicked by the Awards Committee for being a source of inspiration for the Asian Pacific American business community, and was recognized in the Engineering category.
Sun accepts his award from publisher of Asian Enterprise Magazine WiIly Borromeo, The 15th Annual Awards Program and banquetÑthemed ÒIn Pursuit of Excellence"Ñwas held at the historic Millenium Biltmore Hotel in downtown Los Angeles. According to Asian Enterprise Magazine, "It is our way of recognizing exemplary leaders who have stood behind the spirit of Asian Pacific American small business enterprise." Sponsors of this year's event included Walmart, Pepsico, Sodexho, The Coca Cola Company, IBM, Chrysler, HarrahÕs and Morgan Stanley. "It is a great honor to be presented with this award," says Sun, who also received letters from Chairman of the Congressional Pacific Asian Caucus Mike Honda and House Speaker Nancy Pelosi. In his address to the audience, Sun said ÒAsian Americans are eager to hone our talents so we can make significant contributions to strengthen this great nation called America that we now call home.Ó Master of Ceremonies was Angela Baraquio-Grey, Miss America 2001. A former teacher, Baraquio-Grey founded a non-profit organization that promotes education and provides scholarships to students and teachers. Corporate representatives from Fortune 500 companies and political figures were present at the event, and Ralph Alvarez, President and COO, McDonald's Corporation, was the keynote speaker. Other notable AEY recipients included: Overall winner Dr. Karen Eng; Governor Bobby Jindal, State of Louisiana - Public Servant Advocate; Indra Nooyi, Pepsico CEO - CEO Advocate; Jim Skinner McDonald's Corp. CEO - CEO Advocate and Esther Silver-Parker, Senior Vice President of Diversity Relations, Walmart - Special Advocate. NCTM Annual Convention Strengthens Old Ties Among Long-Time Educators SALT LAKE CITY, UTÑTwo long-time proponents of urban math education were reunited at the National Council of Teachers of Mathematics Annual Meeting in April. Dr. Dorothy Strong, retired Director of Mathematics for Chicago Public Schools and Robert Sun, 24¨ Game inventor and creator of the First In Math Online Program met at a luncheon, along with several colleagues, to discuss both the successes and challenges of mathematics education among urban schools.
Photo, left to right: Robert Sun; Dr. Dorothy Strong; Harriet Haynes; Yvonne Roberts, Math Coach at Jackie Robinson School in Brooklyn; Michelle Patterson Murray, Assistant Principal at Ebbets Field MS in Brooklyn; Shirley Smith, Math Teacher at Springbrook HS in Maryland and Cred Dobson. "Dr. Strong was Director of Mathematics for Chicago Public Schools when Suntex held the first-ever 24 Challenge¨ Math Tournament in Chicago nearly 20 years ago," explains Sun. "As one of the founding members of the National Science Foundation's Urban Systemic Initiative created by Luther Williams, Dr. Strong had a hand in eventually bringing the First In Math Online Program to the entire School District of Philadelphia in 2004." The Urban Systemic Initiative aimed at closing the gap between academic performance in science, technology, and mathematics among suburban and urban students, many of whom are at a great economic disadvantage. Resources from the program were used to bring the First In Math Online Program to all School District of Philadelphia students in grades 3 through 8, leading to a significant increase in overall performance in math. (see FIM Case Studies) "Dr. Strong has always taken a leadership position in meeting the needs of urban students, and in particular is concerned with raising the mathematics performance of minority students," says Sun. "In many ways, we have been on a parallel course over the years, in the quest to provide quality math programs to urban students that will help them achieve at high levels." Dr. Strong served on the Board of Directors at NCTM from 1987 to 1990, and was instrumental in the release of the first 'Math Standards' guidelines offered by the organization in 1989. "I believe that the Lord places people in my path at the right time, and Bob Sun was one of those people," explains Dr. Strong. She also believes that First In Math is wonderful way to reach underachievers and reluctant learners. "In my weekly tutoring center, I have to force them off the computer! I was concerned about the attention span and lack of basic-fact knowledge of one of my fourth-graders, but he is doing so much better now. Another young man who is in special ed because of missing skills and discipline issues is really learning. While mastering the basic skills, students are also gaining skills on how to handle equations and unknownsÑand they love it." "My better students also love it, and I especially like the way that everyone can be challenged at some level," says Strong. "Meeting with Dr. Strong and her colleagues brought back fond memories of earlier mathematics innovators, such as Dr. Max Beberman, Robert Davis and Alan Barson, and set me to thinking about how impressed these great mathematics educators would be with First in Math Online," says First In Math Ambassador Cred Dobson, former Mathematics Curriculum Academic Content Coach for the School District of Philadelphia. "The program embodies many of the early ideas, but employs technology to raise skill fluency development to a whole new levelÑand the computer-savvy students of today gravitate to it like ducks to water! Our challenge as educators, teachers and parents is to get ourselves up-to-speed and get this program into the schools for our children." Prince George's County Holds First-Ever County-Wide First In Math Awards Event ADELPHI, MDÑPrince GeorgeÕs County Public Schools were honored for achievement in the First In Math Online Program on May 14 at a district-wide Awards Celebration. The audience of parents and family members cheered as awards were presented to Region Superintendents, Principals, Teachers and students on the stage of the Inn and Conference Center at the University of Maryland. Program creator Robert Sun attended the ceremony and presented key awards. PGCPS Talented and Gifted Supervisor Theresa Jackson says that First In Math is a wonderful teaching tool because it engages both teachers and students in learning and achievement. ÒI am impressed with the performance of all the students, especially at Calverton Elementary. They have produced phenomenal results in a relatively short period of time.Ó The top two nationally-ranked Prince GeorgeÕs County schools are Paint Branch ES, ranked #6 nationally and #1 in Maryland and Calverton, who finished #9 nationally while holding on to the #2 state ranking.
LEFT PHOTO: Left to right, back row: PGCPS Elementary Mathematics Coach Richard Birecree; PGCPS Acting Elementary Supervisor Patricia Morrison; Robert Sun; PGCPS Talented and Gifted Supervisor Theresa Jackson and PGCPS Acting Coordinating Supervisor for Academic Programs Judith Russ. Front row: Bond MIll Team Leader Umbrenda Fisher; Belviane Songong; Ashley Akateh; Azzah Ismail and Pauline Belton, accepting an award for Bond Mill Principal Justin Fitzgerald. The top five Schools statewide were singled out for special recognition, along with the students whose mathematics achievement propelled their alma maters to state and national honors. The top-ranked PGCPS schools within Maryland are: Heather Hills, ranked #4; Kenmoor ES, ranked #9; Chase ES, ranked #13 and John Bayne ES, ranked #14. Prince George's County Teams also garnered many state awards. Paint Branch's Lydia Laidlow proudly accepted a beautiful acrylic award as Team Leader of the #1 Team in the state, as did Umbrenda Fisher, Team Leader of the #2 team at Bond MIll ES. Fourth grader Caleb McCammon, who was honored in 2006 as Maryland's top-ranked second grader, received the prestigious "National Top Ten All Star Award" as the #10 nationally-ranked playerÑall grades. "I really want to thank my math teachers for all they have done," said McCammon, after accepting the trophy and a hug of congratulations from Sun. Judith Russ, Acting Coordinating Supervisor, Academic Programs for PGCPS, fully supports implementation of the program for the '08-09 school-year. "Its value in motivating students to engage and excel in mathematics merits the district's continued support," says Russ. Russ and Jackson were presented with Suntex's "Spirit In Education Award" for their ongoing efforts on behalf of the program in Prince GeorgeÕs County. Patricia Morrison, Acting Supervisor for Mathematics, also received a special Recognition Award. Guests were treated to refreshments, and after the presentations, students crowded the stage to have pictures taken with Sun. Prince George's County Regional Superintendents Janice Briscoe, Oretha Bridgwaters, Kathleen Kurtz, Yvonne Crawford and Dr. Marylyn Moreno were slated to receive special awards. For additional photos of the event, click here. Top Alabama Teams Honored at First In Math Awards Ceremony BOAZ, ALÑBoaz Intermediate School hosted a celebration May 8 to congratulate three of its First In Math Teams for their accomplishments in the online math program's national competition. Fifth-grade team "Troop" was #1 in the state, just one notch ahead of the school's fourth-grade team, "Magic," who finished second. English Language Learners Team "Topaz" was recognized for finishing 11th.
Boaz Intermediate School's 4th grade Team is #2 in Alabama (left) and 5th grade team is ranked #1. Principal John Beck said when the school began using a new reading program, math teachers asked him about a program to challenge students in mathematics. Beck says they discovered First In Math Òby accidentÓ when teachers were searching for an online version of the 24¨ Game. One of the math teachers signed up for a free trial, and the company, through local Alabama representative Adams Learning Resources, later offered the school a pilot program for three, 36-member teams. On hand to present awards were: Barbara Asteak, vice president of Pennsylvania-based Suntex International, the creators of the 24 game and the First In Math program; Boaz Mayor Tim Walker; Tony King, president of the Boaz City School Board; and Principal John Beck. ÒThis is a great honor,Ó said King. Math teacher Sheree Fox, who won a FIM Winner's Circle Kit for the school in February, was presented with a Team Leader plaque, and fifth-grader Nick Williams was recognized as the #1 player in Alabama. Brent Claburn finished just one position behind Williams, and the other top five students at BIS are Brylee Argy, Avery Nevels and Cassi Dobbins. According to ESL Specialist Marty Hatley, there is one student in particular who has excelled since being introduced to First in Math. "Juan is a student who had often said that he didn't like school. He is not only a limited-English student, but also a special education student who often would become upset if the work he had to do was difficult to him. He began playing First in Math on a regular basis last semester, and his attitude toward math has made a complete turnaround. He is attempting math problems that I thought would have been way out of his range. He has exceeded not only his teachers' expectations, but has also surpassed what he thought he could do on his own," says Hatley. Juan and his ELL/Intervention teammates worked together to solve more than 60,000 math problems so far this yearÑearning more than 20,000 virtual stickers online. Juan and his parents are very proud of his accomplishments. "The program has helped him approach grade-level standards in math," says Hatley. He is now a student that has a positive attitude toward math and learning, and I think the change has a lot to do with the First in Math program, because it makes learning fun for students."
Left to right: Juan is introduced to the crowd; Avery Nevels and Nick Williams, #1-ranked player in the state; Barbara Asteak presents a Team Leader Award to Sheree Fox. C.W. Henry School Students Show What They Know! PHILADELPHIA, PAÑCharles W. Henry Elementary School held a special Awards Assembly on May 5, 2008 for students who reached specific targets in the First In Math¨ Online Program. Students who completed their assigned "Know & Show" module prior to taking the Pennsylvania State System of Assessment (PSSA) math tests were rewarded with certificates, First In Math lanyards and more.
LEFT: Jennifer Hawkins and Principal Caren Trantas (holding lanyards) posed with each group of students as they received their awards. RIGHT: Cred Dobson congratulates one of Henry's top players, 4th grader Tiana Garvin. "The Know & Show modules on the FIM site are simply a great place for students to practice the kinds of rigorous questions they will have to face on standardized tests," explains School Based Math Teacher Leader Jennifer Hawkins. "The kids actually have fun answering the questions, which is great, but they are building problem-solving skills at the same time." The K-8 school expanded to 16 First In Math Teams this year, and has been using the program since it's introduction into the School District of Philadelphia in 2004. In 2004, 55.4% of Henry's fifth-graders were at the "Proficient & Above" level set by No Child Left Behind standards. By 2005, 71.1% had achieved that benchmarkÑan increase of 15.7 percentage points. Eigth-graders rose by 19.5 percentage points. "Our instruction is child-centered and developmentally appropriate, and the First In Math program fits right in with our standard curriculum, since each child can progress at his or her own level," says Hawkins. Located in the historic Mt. Airy section of Philadelphia, C.W. Henry has always been a school dedicated to excellence. "We have a rich tradition of parental and community involvement here," says Principal Caren Trantas, who helped hand out awards. "I like that students can use the First In Math program at home, and involve their parents in the educational process." First In Math Ambassador Cred Dobson, who taught math at Henry from 1986 to 2002, also attended the assembly. "It's great to be back here at Henry!" Dobson told the students. "You guys are awesome!" Saint Laurence School's Dedication To First In Math¨ UPPER DARBY, PAÑAs the clock ticks toward the deadline for the First In Math Online Program National Top Ten Awards, St. Laurence School is becoming a force to reckon with in the program. The K-8 Catholic school is currently ranked #1 among all grades in the Philadelphia Archdiocese, and ranked #22, all grades, among more than 1,000 participating schools in Pennsylvania. In addition, 6th grader James O'Shea is the #3-ranked player in the nation, all grades, with more than 28,000 stickers. "I play four or five times a week for about 30 minutes," says O'Shea, explaining his strategy. "I like to choose the game at random and work on it until I finish the level. Most of the time it comes natural to me, but if I have a problem I stay with it until I solve it."
Number one team in the Philadelphia Archdiocese, Vista61PA. James O'Shea holds the team's First In Math traveling trophy. St. Laurence School loves the First in Math Program, according to Math Coordinator Ann Char. "On April 11 we had a First In Math MarathonÑevery computer in the school was on the site. Every class had 30 minutes in the lab and classroom computers were available to the students as they finished their work. A group of sixth graders even opted to use the lab during lunch recess!" "Our Home & School Association pays for the program each year, and we are grateful for their support," says Principal Sister Helen Thomas. Teachers, students, and parents are all seeing benefits. "While students are enjoying the healthy competition, teachers find that students are not only mastering basic skills but are also motivated to become independent learners. Parents are enthusiastic that the children are engaged in a safe online activity." Recognition of the students' success plays an important role in the program, according to Char. "Our Principal encourages the students over the loudpseaker and gives regular updates on their progress. We also have a First in Math Wall of Champions where we post the leaders in each homeroom." "Saint Laurence truly believes in the FIM program, and in the 24¨ Game," says Char. "In addition to our FIM activities, we have an after-school club for children who wish to play the 24 game, and about 30 students stay after school on Mondays to compete using official tournament rules." The school is planning to host a mini tournament at its Academic Fair in May, with the hopes of expanding to a regional competiiton in Delaware County next year. In the past, when there were citywide 24 Challenge¨ tournaments, St. Laurence was always well represented. For several years, the Delaware county winner was a St. Laurence student. Pollock Elementary Becomes Second Philadelphia School WASHINGTON, DCÑThe United States Department of Education has chosen Philadelphia's Robert B. Pollock Elementary as a National Blue Ribbon School for 2007. The No Child Left Behind Blue Ribbon Schools Award honors schools that help students achieve at very high levels and for making significant progress in closing the achievement gap.
Photo, left to right: Pollock Principal Kathleen Quinn, Northeast Regional Superintendent Lissa Johnson and School Based Mathematics Teacher Leader Andrea Miller pose at the school's award ceremony. Quinn and Miller received flowers from the First In Math program. Principal Kathleen Quinn and Mrs. Andrea Miller, School Based Mathematics Teacher Leader, attended the award ceremony in Washington DC on November 12th. ÒWe are extremely proud of the No Child Left Behind-Blue Ribbon Schools designation," says Principal Quinn. Located in the School District of Philadelphia's Northeast Region, Pollock Elementary has fully embraced the First In Math¨ Online Program. "I continue to say to anyone who asks about our achievement that First in Math has played a huge role. In my 38 years as an educator I have never seen kids so willing to challenge themselves,Ó explains Quinn. "We enjoyed hearing that Hill Freedman was named a National Blue Ribbon winner last year, and I believe it cannot be a coincidence that both of our schools are heavily into First In Math. We have great teachers and an atmosphere that values high achievement, but definitely, positively, First In Math is a key component of our success." Pollock is only the second school in Philadelphia to win the Blue Ribbon award; Hill Freedman School received the designation last year. (Hill Freedman story) Both schools are consistently ranked among the top First In Math schools. Pollock is currently ranked the Number 1 First In Math school in the nation. Miller, a driving force behind the school's success, agrees. "First in Math is an amazing educational tool. It teaches much-needed thinking and computation skills and raises test scores. In addition, FIM generates excitement among teachers, parents and especially the children. It is a vital part of the educational process here at Pollock School." Quinn and Northeast Regional Superintendent Lissa Johnson presented faculty with certificates, and every faculty member and student received a small "blue ribbon" pin, in honor of the award. See First In Math¨ at National Council of Teachers of Mathematics If you attend NCTM's Annual Meeting in Salt Lake City, visit First In Math at booth #519. Pick up a complimentary First In Math lanyard that comes with a FREE FIM User ID and Password, valid until July 31, 2008. Meet inventor Robert Sun, bring back an autographed 24¨ game card for your class, take a guided tour of the program on one of our iMacs, and learn how the First In Math¨ Online Program can help you inspire your students to even higher levels of achievement. See you there April 10-12! Sacred Heart Catholic School Second-Graders' LANCASTER, PAÑLancaster County's Sacred Heart Catholic School is home to one of the top First In Math Teams in the nation. Team "Ocean89pa" is ranked #2 in the country among all second-grade teams with an average of 1,758 stickers per student, and is also Ranked #1 All Grades in the Harrisburg Diocese with a total of 26,384 stickers. "This is an awesome achievement for second-graders," says First In Math National Director Mark Losey, adding that he occasionally speaks with school representatives who have the impression that First In Math is not appropriate for first or second grade. "That is certainly not the case," explains Losey. "FIM offers plenty of content for young learners, or those students who may be performing at a remedial level."
Left: Sister Georgiana Connell (back) and Team "Ocean89pa." Right: Second-grade students enjoy helping their first-grade counterparts navigate the First In Math site. "I spoke with Mr. Losey while attending the Pennsylvania Educational Technology Expo & Conference, and told him how much our students and faculty were excited by the First In Math program," says Jessica Drago, Instructional Technology Support Specialist at Sacred Heart. "We have eight teams using the program, and we are very proud of all of our students." Sister Georgiana Connell, Team Leader of "Ocean89pa" has earned more than 7,000 stickers as a Team-Leader-Player, good enough for a #28 national ranking. "I am so proud of my second graders here at Sacred Heart School. From the beginning, my students and I have worked as a team. I decided that if I wanted the second graders to participate, then I needed to do so as well!" Sister also says that she is amazed at how eager students are to help one another use FIM. "We have the second-graders help teach the first-gradersÑthey are very patient, and love to help the students that may be struggling. Several times they have helped me learn a new game!" Sister Georgiana's class is now ready to study multiplication, but several students began multiplication and division on their own as their thirst to advance through the program grew. "It has been a joy watching the students blossom as they discover new skills and ideas. The advanced students are never bored and love to work on Know and Show and the other games. We do a math drill each day, and have definitely improved in accuracy and speed thanks to First In Math. We share our progress daily and cheer everyone onward! I think First in Math is a wonderful program." Inventor Makes A "House-Call" to Check Progress WASHINGTON, DCÑStunned looks transformed into broad smiles as First In Math¨ creator Robert Sun paid "surprise" visits to several Georgetown Day School classrooms on February 28. Sun, along with Suntex Executive Vice President Nan Ronis, spoke to students and handed out FIM lanyards to some of the school's top players. FIM Team Leader and Lower School Math Coordinator Mary Lou Berres was also singled out for special recognition.
Left: Assistant Principal Rose Bednar looks on as Robert Sun presents Mary Lou Berres with a special award. Right: Berres and Sun pose with Carrie Haslett and some of her top FIM players in their 5th grade classroom. "Put simply, the games help kids learn," says Berres. "For example, students are exposed to decimals and geometry in Know & Show, so they are much more capable when they see it in my class." Students report that Shape Shuffle and Grand Slam are among their favorite activities, but tell Berres they love the Know & Show module because it gives them hints to help them solve the problems on their own. "How many other programs encourage students to think and be self-reliant?" asks Berres. GDS offers a challenging academic program, and is very selective about its technology purchases. "I review available products each year, and recommend FIM for funding due to its breadth of content and design," says Lower/Middle School Technology Coordinator Marti Weston, confirming the value of the program. "We use First In Math in grades one through five, and every year more girls and more minority students are participating," says Lower School Assistant Principal Rose Bednar. "It was a lot of fun to see the kids get so excited about Mr. Sun's visit," says Julie Chlopecki, mother of two students at the small school and long-time supporter of the First In Math program. Assistant Principal Bednar agrees. "We originally planned to hold a school-wide assembly to honor our school's #2 all-grades ranking in the District of Columbia, but I think the students enjoyed the personal time with Mr. Sun even more." First In Math vs. Nintendo WiiÑThe Ultimate Smackdown! HARTFORD, CTÑPhilip is a huge "gamer." The active fourth-grader never goes anywhere without bringing his PSPÑthat's Sony's Play Station Portable for those of you over the age of 18. His mother, Susan Murray, admits she has even caught him playing in bed at night. "We recently got a Nintendo Wii game console, and Philip was CONSTANTLY asking if he could play it," says Murray. "Imagine my shock when he turned it down to finish one of the games on the First In Math site!" A busy family with many activities, the Murrays had not had many chances to use their new Wii. "After school one day, I told the kids that when they finished their homework, they could play video games on the Wii" explains Murray. "When they finished everything, I turned it on and my other two kids began to play. I called to Philip, but he told me that he was busy doing First in Math and had to finish. I reminded him that he had basketball practice that evening and wouldn't be able to use the Wii later. He told me, 'that's okay, I'd rather do the First in Math'. I was amazed! For Philip to give up an opportunity to play video games is huge!" "Our entire school is buzzing with excitement," says Tyrone Richardson, Math Coach at Noah Webster MicroSociety Magnet School. "Even though we started the program much later than some of the other schools, we are currently ranked 3rd in Connecticut." Richardson explains that Philip has been battling with several classmates to have the most points in the First in Math program.
Philip with his teacher, Mrs. Pam Brunell. "The program has made math come to life at Noah Webster," says Principal Dolores Cole. "Our students are now excited about math, and this excitement has generated a healthy competition to score high!" "All three of my kids love First in Math, but Philip is by far the most competitive," says Murray. "FIM has been a great way to combine his competitiveness and love of computer gamesÑall while improving his math skills! I am very impressed with the program and the effect it has had on the entire school. I see the effect not only in my kids, but at the math awards and during our Aetna Math Mentoring program." At first, Murray says she was concerned that the program might not be fair to children that don't have computers or internet access at home, but is no longer worried. "Mr. Richardson and the staff have done a great job implementing this program, and I have seen how the teachers make computers available to students before and after school and during free time. "Students are even choosing to do First in Math at recess." More Than $125 Million In School Improvement Grants Available WASHINGTON, DCÑU.S. Department of Education has more than $125 million set aside for School Improvement Grants to help low-performing schools. Funds are authorized to address the needs of schools in improvement, correction action, and restructuring, and are to be used to leverage change and target activities toward measurable outcomes. Monies from this grant are already being used to implement the First In Math Online Program, as demonstrated by the School District of Philadelphia's Office of School Intervention and Support. "Being able to get funding for a comprehensive program like First In Math means so much to some of these struggling schools," explains Cred Dobson, former Mathematics Curriculum Academic Content Coach for the School District of Philadelphia. "We already know that, when implemented properly, the First in Math online program will raise tests scores significantly. The program dovetails beautifully with any core mathematics curriculum, builds basic skills, computational fluency and enhances our students self esteem."
Cheryl Mason-Dorman, sitting at the head of the table, listens along with Region Intervention Administrators as Cred Dobson explains how best to maximize results after implementing the First In Math Online Program. Cheryl Mason-Dorman, the district's Acting Director, Office of School Intervention and Support, recently held a professional development meeting for district personnel about the First In Math program. "We are acting as advocates for our children," says Mason-Dorman. "Our office collects, analyzes and shares data about the effectiveness of programs such as First In Math, to better support and create positive learning environments in our schools that lead to high achievement for all students." As stated in the grant, expected results from use of the funds include improving student proficiency, which the First In Math program readily demonstrates (see Case Studies). In addition, each state or local education agency must implement one or more of five listed School Improvement Strategies and achieve measurable outcomes. First In Math Players Top 100,000,000 Stickers! EASTON, PAÑAs of 1:15 p.m. Eastern Standard Time on February 21, 2008, Total Stickers Earned for the 2007-2008 school year reached the 100 million sticker milestone!
ÒThe tremendous effort that students are making this year in the First In Math program is breathtaking,Ó says program creator Robert Sun. ÒIn a little more than six months, students have spent more than one million hours on the site and correctly solved more than 300 million mathematics problems.Ó Last yearÕs record 97,193,190 award stickers took students a full 12 months to accumulate. At this rate of progress, Sun expects the achievement of another major milestone by the end of this school yearÑmore than ONE BILLION math problems solved since the siteÕs debut four years ago. New Leader Emerges in Battle for Top Spot PHILADELPHIA, PAÐSeventh-grader Ao Kong has passed Pollock Elementary's Valentino Papa, claiming the title of #1 Player in the First In Math¨ Online Program. Kong, who currently has 31,701 stickers, attends General George A. McCall Elementary School, located in the School District of Philadelphia's Central City Region. Students from Pennsylvania, Maryland, West Virginia, Wisconsin and California teams make up the rest of the top 10. Competition for national awards ends April 30, 2008, and the top 10 players will receive a National FIM All Star Award. In addition, the #1-ranked player, all grades combined, will receive an Apple iTouch¨. Two Wisconsin Teams Celebrate First In Math Success PRESCOTT, WIÑMalone Elementary School Principal Scott Halverson hosted a First In Math celebration on January 31, 2008 to honor his students' math success in the First In Math Online Program. The Pierce county school is currently the #1-ranked school, all grades, in Wisconsin. Team Leaders Deborah Hunter, Kristen Kopp, Miranda Schwab and Vicki Trollen were presented with FIM Excellence Awards. Top players received medals, lanyards and keychains. Principal Halverson was presented with a special commemorative plaque by FIM representative Barbara Asteak, who attended the ceremony along with Prescott School District Superintendent Roger Hulne.
Left: Malone students remind everyone that they are ranked #1 in Wisconsin! Right: Van Brunt Principal Scott Miller and Team Leader Lisa Schultz pose with the top five players on Team Grand55wi. On Febrauary 1 in nearby Dodge county, Horicon's Van Brunt Middle School also held a celebration for students and faculty. Van Brunt is home to the #1 seventh-grade team in Wisconsin, "grand55wi." The team also currently ranks second, all grades, in the state and 5th nationally among seventh-grade teams. The crowd, which included Horicon School District Superintendent James McCartney, clapped as Team Leader Lisa Schultz received a special acrylic award. Medals, lanyards and keychains were awarded to players, and Principal Scott Miller accepted a special commemorative plaque on behalf of the school. Asteak, who attended both events, has high praise for Wisconsin schools. "I wish it were possible to visit EVERY school in Wisconsin," says Asteak. "The students and teachers I have been able to meet show tremendous enthusiasm, not just for First In Math, but for academics in generalÑit's very exciting that First In Math is a part of that!" Wisconsin schools interested in participating in the First In Math Online Program can contact FIM representative Shannon Duncan at 563-382-6353 (office) or 563-419-4062 (cell). First in Math¨ Program
Goes Overseas To DROBETA TURNU-SEVERIN, ROMANIAÐA relatively
small Romanian town along the shore of the Danube river is home to
the first East European school to offer its students access to the
First in Math¨ Online Program!
Irina Zaman is interviewed
by a Romanian TV news crew, as her team When word got out that Titeica students were competing online in a math contest and that they could compare their scores to those of American students, one of the local TV stations came to interview Zaman and her team. Local newspapers followed suit, printing weekly updates of Titeica studentsÕ ranking in FIM Top 100. Zaman hopes that all this publicity will bring more support for an idea she already believesÑthat math can be exciting and fascinating. The initial 15 students received access to First In Math through a grant offered by Suntex through the Center for Mathematics, Science, and Computer Education at Rutgers University in New Jersey. However, the students and parents interested in gaining access to First in Math were so keen to use the program that they offered to pay for access themselves. And so, starting in January 2008, a new group of Romanian students will combine math with play, and find themselves immersed in the First in Math universe! (Read student comments) Number One Player Surpasses Last Year's Record PHILADELPHIA, PAÑPollock Elementary School's Valentino Papa is currently the top-ranked player in the First In Math Online Program with more than 26,000 stickers! Setting a record pace, Papa has already surpassed last year's record, set by Stoughton, Wisconsin's Hanna Sonsalla, who finished the program in April, 2007 with 24,408 stickers. "The addition of three new modules has certainly increased the amount of available stickers, but Valentino is playing it very smart this year, taking his time and earning every sticker possible," explains program creator Robert Sun. Papa was also ranked #1 last year for several weeks, but topped out at 20,348 stickers and was passed by nine other players, including Sonsalla, near the end of the program. This year, he is followed closely by students from McCall Elementary, also in the School District of Philadelphia, and Glenarden Woods Elementary in Maryland's Prince George's County. School's Top Achievers Receive An Unusually Tasty Award PHILADELPHIA, PAÑFor those who have not had the opportunity to experience a soft Philly Pretzel hot out of the oven, rest assured it is a tasty treat. In the city, soft pretzels are a common sight at ball games, street vendors and restaurants, but top achievers in the First In Math¨ Online Program at AMY NW school were presented with this edible prize at schoolÑwith a twistÑeach had their name spelled out in PRETZEL!
Principal Marco Zanoni came up with the idea as a special way to recognize the top five students. "I thought it would be a lot of fun, and something that would get students talking," laughs Zanoni. The doughy treats were donated by Jim's Soft Pretzel Company, a local franchise that serves handmade pretzels with exceptional style. Eighth-grader Cheyenne Salazar, shown here with a representative from Jim's Soft Pretzels and Tech Teacher Liaison Sheryl Engle, thought the award was great, as did the other top players: Tyler Hickson; Jenien Johnson; Kimberly Reed and Jasmyne Easley. Philadelphia School District Principal PHILADELPHIA, PAÑFitler Academics Plus School Principal Willette Jones was named Northwest Region First In Math¨ Principal of the Year 2006/2007, and presented with the "Cred Dobson Achievement Award" by First In Math¨ creator Robert Sun. A special award ceremony was held on December 7 to honor Jones.
Left to right: First In Math Ambassador Cred Dobson; Director of Special Education John Murphy; Regional Superintendent Linda Grobman; Robert Sun; Principal Jones, holding the crystal award and an acrylic replica; Director of Instruction Jackie Greene and Director of School Support Services Steve Spence. ÒIt means a lot to me to receive an award in CredÕs name, since I have so much love and admiration for him,Ó says Jones. According to her staff, Principal Jones' vision has been to excite students about learning through innovative teaching strategies that integrate technologyÑsuch as the First In Math Online Program. ÒThe program does work to improve achievement in mathematics, especially when it is made a part of your whole school culture,Ó Jones explains. "Fitler's success is nothing short of inspiring," says Sun. During the three years Fitler has used the First In Math program, the 8th grade had a 55.6 percentage-point increase in students scoring Proficient and Above on System of Pennsylvania School Assessment (PSSA) math tests. Over the same period, the 5th grade showed a 63.5 percentage-point jump, with 92.5% of students scoring Proficient and Above on the 2006 PSSA math test. "Great Principals find something that works, and can motivate their staff and student body to use it, as Principal Jones has done," says award namesake Cred Dobson, former Academic Coach of Mathematics for the School District of Philadelphia's Northwest Region. School Pumped Up
about Math Success ALLENTOWN, PAÑAs students at Jefferson Elementary gathered for an assembly the morning of December 7, Principal Nick Perez asked the students if they were using the First in Math website, and almost all hands shot up in the air. Math Coach Megan Fisher congratulated the students for being the program's top-ranked elementary school in the Allentown School District, to the sound of loud cheers, and then introduced a surprise guest. Cynthia Anderson from the First In Math Online Program joined Fisher onstage, and asked the students "do you love First in Math?" The students shouted out "yes" and cheered again. Building on the excitement in the auditorium, Anderson announced that one of their teachers, Ms. Hamman, had won the First In Math Card of the Day contest for November.
Left to right: Principal Nick Perez; ASD Elementary Math Coordinator Kelly Rosario; "Scooter7pa" Team Leader Deanna Hamman and Math Coach Megan Fisher proudly display their Winner's Circle loot! The contest is open to all First In Math Team Leaders, and the prizeÑa Winner's Circle Kit, includes: 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¨ MP3 music player. Anderson introduced Kelly Rosario, Elementary Math Coordinator for the district, and asked the students to thank her for bringing First in Math to their school. They did so with loud applause. "First in Math is a fun and meaningful way for students to do their basic fact practice,Ó says Rosario. "More than 50% of the stickers our students earn are not during school hours but at home," added Fisher. "Many parents tell us they are excited about the program and thrilled that their children are using it at home." Fisher also announced additional incentives for the students, including rewards for weekly high-sticker count, gift certificates and custody of the First in Math Traveling Classroom Trophy. First In Math¨ Online Program Earns CLRN Successful Review
MODESTO, CAÑAfter a thorough evaluation of the content-rich First In Math¨ Online Program, the California Learning Resource Network (CLRN) has successfully reviewed the Pennsylvania-based website. The review process utilizes California State Board of Education approved review criteria, covering three areas: Legal Compliance, Standards Alignment, and Minimum Requirements. Only resources that meet all of the CLRN review criteria are included in CLRN's database and website. CLRN serves as a guide to standards-aligned electronic resources and assessments for teachers, administrators and parents through the state of California. CLRN experts identify, review and organize Electronic Learning Resources (ELRs) in a searchable database that allows educators to compare key features of selected resources. "The review is posted on the CLRN site," says Kelley Day, Program Manager/Publisher Liaison for CLRN. CLRN provides educators with a "one-stop" resource for critical information needed for the selection of supplemental ELRs aligned to the State Board of Education academic content standards. The site provides information through its searchable database and links to state education technology projects and resources. (Link to CLRN First In Math Information page.) "We are excited to be included on the CLRN site," says Nan Ronis, Suntex Executive Vice President. "The motivation to submit detailed information about First In Math's alignment with California standards really came from educators around the state who were favorably impressed with the benefits of our program, and the credential of the multi-year WestEd study. For them the challenge is, as always, identifying various funding sources to provide valuable content for their students. The CLRN review opens up funding options for schools throughout California." School District of Philadelphia Interim CEO Among Attendees at PHILADELPHIA, PAÑOn November 8th, 2007, AMY Northwest Middle School held a special award ceremony to recognize students, staff, and Principal Marco Zanoni for outstanding achievement in the First in Math¨ Online Program. The tiny middle school is currently ranked 1st among schools in the School District of PhiladelphiaÕs Northwest Region, 3rd in Pennsylvania and 6th nationally in the online math program. Mr. Tom Brady, Interim CEO of the School District of Philadelphia, was in attendance to present awards and offer support. ÒWhat a great eventÑI truly enjoyed it,Ó said Brady. AMY Student Thair Richardson served as emcee for the event, calling top FIM players and honored guests to the podium.
Left to right:
24 Game/First In Math inventor Robert Sun; School District of Special recognition was given to Computer Teacher Leader Ms. Sheryl Engle, and Math Leader Mark Zeserman. Engle runs a FIM Morning Club where students can come in early to use FIM before school. Principal Zanoni accepted a plaque in honor of the schoolÕs achievement during the 2006/2007 school year, when AMY finished the year #3 all grades in Pennsylvania. "I am extremely proud of our First In Math award winners," said Zanoni. President of Suntex International Inc. and 24¨ Game inventor/First in
Math creator Robert Sun was surprised with a large FIM poster handcrafted
by students, and was also interviewed by the school's newspaper staff.
Other special guests in attendance were: Ms. Linda Grobman, Northwest
Regional Superintendent; Nancy Bratton, Director of Middle Schools; Jackie
Greene, Director of Instruction and Mr. Cred Dobson, District Ambassador
for the First in Math program.
Left to right: Northwest Regional Superintendent
Linda Grobman; Tom Brady Team Leaders Get
in on the Excitement EASTON, PAÑTwo dedicated First In Math¨ Team Leaders, Kevin Tomasic and Kimberly Johnson, are currently ranked #1 and #2 nationally among Team Leaders who are playing under their own User ID. More than 600 Team Leaders have signed on to experience the site as a "Student" since the end of September. "Our Math Coach emailed me and said that Team Leaders could now play the games and earn stickers, but I didnÕt even know until recently that the Team Leaders were ranked," says Tomasic, a 4th grade math Teacher at Park Elementary in Munhall, PA. "My students told me one day that I was ranked #7 in the nation. Once I knew that we were ranked, I set my goal on 10,000 stickers. Just ask my wife about itÑshe complains because I am on the computer constantly," laughs Tomasic, who also has to contend with his sons for computer time. "My son Brandon is in 5th grade and is currently 5th in the school and my other son, Nathan is currently 3rd. They love the website," says Tomasic, who has already passed the 10,000-sticker threshold. Johnson is right behind him, with nearly 10,000 stickers. "I usually check the 'News' on the Team Leader page every day, and that is where I first noticed that we could keep a sticker count of our own" says Johnson, who teaches gifted classes in grades 4 and 5 at Hollywood Florida's Oakridge Elementary. "It has been an amazing experience to play exactly like the kids do. I really did not understand a lot about each game before, nor did I understand the "plateaus" that one reaches after all the quick and easy things are done. When I reached the same point myself this year, my students couldn't wait to say 'Now you know how we feel!' They are rightÑI do know now."
Left: Park Elementary's Kevin Tomasic and his son Brandon. Right: Kimberly Johnson shows off her team's FIM trophy. Johnson, a National Board Certified Teacher, thinks it is important for teachers to sample the site through their students' eyes. "It has given me a whole new appreciation for the process. I am better able to help the children when they have trouble. Last year I would occasionally have one child help another child because I was not familiar with the game they were playing. Now I know exactly what they are experiencing, and I can guide them through the solution." "An added benefit I didn't expect is that my students are now spurred on by my sticker-count," explains Johnson, who's FIM team is currently ranked #1 in the nation, all grades. "The top kids don't want me to beat them. They check my ranking all the time and harass me like I do them. We have a lot of fun with it." Speaking of fun, Johnson's class recently held a "First in Math Sleep Over," which was covered by the Miami Herald. "The kids had a great time and played until about midnight, with three breaks: one for dinner; one late in the evening for ice cream and one exercise break," says Johnson. "They fell asleep while watching a movie and we finally got everyone asleep about 1:30, but they were up by about six a.m. and running to the computers to play more before breakfast!" Principal Alan Gatzke provided food and beverages for the party. Fitler Academics Plus ÒRoad To The TopÓ PHILADELPHIA, PAÑFitler Academics Plus math teacher Rachael Pringle was lauded in a front-page article in the September 10 edition of the prestigious Philadelphia Inquirer. Her mentor, fellow Fitler math teacher Lori Blue, 2006 "Teacher of the Year" for the School District of Philadelphia's Northwest Region, was also featured. Pringle had just begun her first year of teaching at another school when she was transferred to Fitler only five weeks into the 2006/2007 school year. What could have been a disaster for the new teacher turned into a winning collaboration between two amazing educators. Rachael Pringle and Lori BlueÕs 5th-grade math classes had the largest increase in the School District of Philadelphia on the Pennsylvania System of School Assessment (PSSA) for 5th grade. Much of the article focused on the effort that great teachers, such as Pringle and Blue, are willing to make to help students succeed. Pringle says their method is simple, with a "do more" attitude. Blue, Pringle and Principal Willette Jones also gave credit for their students' success to the First in Math Online Program. The the small Germantown school was ranked #9 in Pennsylvania in the national online math program last year, and became the first school in the country to have ALL studentsÑgrades 3 through 8Ñcomplete the basic "GYM" skill modules. Test results confirm that more than 90 percent of Fitler 5th-graders scored proficient/advanced in math. As fourth graders, only about 60 percent of the students had reached those benchmarks in math. The two graphs below show the dramatic improvement in PSSA math scores over the four-year period of FitlerÕs commitment to the First In Math program. The more than 50% jump in percentage of students scoring Proficient and Above on the PSSA state standardized tests in both 5th and 8th grade took Fitler straight to the top. This amazing school was listed among the "School District of PhiladelphiaÕs Top 10 SchoolsÓ in math this year.
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