By TIM MORRISON
For The Beachcomber
Our kids could use some help with their math. Those huge book bags you see them carrying around usually have a hefty math book inside. The topics are the ones you remember from your high school days — algebra, geometry, trigonometry, calculus. But, if anything, the content has gotten more challenging, and given the WASL and competitive education and job markets, the stakes are higher.
The math teachers at the high school do a fine job, but there are more questions than they have time to answer. With 30 students per class and four classes a day, giving students an average of 10 minutes of individual attention a week amounts to 20 hours. Some students don’t need the extra help, but many can use all they can get.
With this need in mind and many benefits in view, Saturday Math and Muffins has been launched. The idea is simple: Students seeking answers to their math questions gather with folks interested in helping them find the answers. Sessions take place at the Vashon Cohousing Common House, located at 10421 S.W. Bank Rd., between 10 a.m. and noon Saturdays. Tutors will include parents, other adults and advanced students. Student tutors will receive community service credits (a graduation requirement) for their work. Those wishing to support the effort but lacking math expertise are invited to make muffins.
The math and muffins concept is inspired by two phenomena. One is the highly popular Saturday sessions that McMurray math teacher Cornelius Lopez provides for his eighth graders. Visit his classroom on most Saturday mornings, and you will find parents helping students, students helping students, and Mr. Lopez helping everyone with his positive, patient and joyful approach. The second stimulus is Dave Eggers’ call to communities to find ways to support their public schools. To learn about this exciting endeavor, visit www.ted.com/index.php/speakers/dave_eggers.html.
The benefits of this project extend beyond the completed assignments and improved test scores. Few activities are more satisfying than tutoring. It is a privilege to get the chance to witness the light of understanding switched on in a student’s mind. Tutoring also provides an opportunity to find common cause and make a meaningful connection with a young person whose life experience may be very different than yours.
If you know some math and have never been a tutor, Saturday Math and Muffins is a good place to try it out. Experienced tutors will be available to help you get started.
— Tim Morrison is an Island resident and former math professor.
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Math and Muffins
Tutors are needed for this project. Tutors need not attend every session, but are encouraged to make a regular commitment — for example, two hours a month. To volunteer, contact Martin Koenig or Margaret Hoeffel at 463-1224.
Students are also needed. If you or someone you know would like help with a high school math class, contact Martin Koenig or Margaret Hoeffel at 463-1224. Drop-ins will also receive help.
Muffin makers are welcome also. Call Martin and Margaret to make arrangements.
