Your support gave middle schoolers a summer math boost – building mastery and confidence

Ms. Ryan helped students gain confidence in their abilities in the summer Elevate [Math] program made possible by your support.

Summertime is full of opportunities for kids – and for 42 middle schoolers, the summer of 2025 was also a chance to get a head start on math for the school year to come. 

The incoming 7th and 8th graders from Altimira Middle School opted in to Elevate [Math], a free acceleration program made possible by donors like you. Over 20 half days, they built momentum for the coming school year and jump-started learning key concepts.

Altimira teachers Richelle Ryan and Laura Hoban received specialized training before the summer session and led the classes. The tried-and-tested curriculum was developed by our partners at the Silicon Valley Education Foundation, a leader in science, technology, engineering, and math (STEM) education.

When students returned to school in the fall, the change in their confidence and skill level was significant. 

Ms. Ryan noted that one student who kept her head down and barely spoke in class prior to Elevate [Math] now volunteers responses and speaks up regularly. 

“She just feels more at ease,” said Ms. Ryan. “She made connections in the summertime and saw, ‘Okay, this is not going to be as scary as I thought it would be.’” 

A college-aged tutor assisted the teachers during Elevate [Math] and made concepts relatable, while inspiring students to consider pursuing math-related degrees and careers. 

Another student whose scores were once far below grade level has now embraced math – and is even contemplating an accelerated track in high school. 

“The summer session gives kids the confidence to go into math, which they didn’t have previously,” said Ms. Ryan. “They get to enjoy it and feel successful.”

With your support, Elevate [Math] students are tackling new challenges with curiosity and confidence. Thank you for giving them the chance to achieve math mastery.

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