MATH SPEAKS
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Mission Statement
Math Speaks is a national non-profit organization that engages, empowers, and exposes middle school students of color from economically disadvantaged communities to STEM experiences and careers by exploring math topics. Through our culturally responsive after-school and professional development programs, we empower the next generation of innovators and leaders to change the world.
About This Cause
Our efforts are focused on the most at-risk communities in the District’s Wards 5, 6, 7, and 8. Over a third of children live in poverty in these Wards, and many have low access to quality programs. According to a 2021 report from the Office of the State Superintendant of Education, only 25 % of these students from Wards 5, 6, 7, and 8 met expectations on the Math PAARC exam. Beyond the wards in which we focus, a recent study by Empower K-12 found that both 4th and 8th graders in Washington, D.C. performed below the national average in Math proficiency. Failure in math leads many students to drop out, graduate late, or lose opportunities for higher education. Math Speaks addresses this problem by developing children's growth mindsets in math and science by increasing their confidence and self-efficacy, and by providing enriching learning experiences that promote and develop students’ interest in math, science and STEM overall as a pathway to career and economic stability Math Speaks is expanding our Afterschool Academy to serve children ages six to 13 at five afterschool sites. Our six-week Academy develops students’ interest in STEM-related career pathways, enhancing their critical thinking, creative problem-solving, collaboration, and decision-making skills. Our participants learn about chemistry, cosmetic chemistry, forensic science, engineering design, robotics, and coding through program staff and guest speakers. Our custom-designed curricula feature team and group activities, competitions, interactive demonstrations, and field trips to ensure our students are engaged in culturally relevant and innovative educational experiences based on their interests and community issues. The goals of our Weekend and Afterschool Academy are to: Increase confidence and self-efficacy in math and science. Increase access to higher math and science courses for students. Develop students’ identity in STEM through self-affirmation and reflection. Increase student interest in STEM fields. Increase STEM careers as a pathway to future economic stability.