The Ohio State University at Mansfield Mathematics Literacy Initiative (MLI) and Mansfield City Schools will partner in strengthening innovative educational strategies for K-12 teachers to help students overcome barriers to learning mathematics. Through a stronger mathematical foundation, students will become more interested in Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM) careers and become more college ready to study those careers.
Through a four-year $110,500 grant from the David W. and Louise W. Evans, Dell Armstrong McMillen, Donald E. Mills and Marion Draffan Wisdom Funds of the Richland County Foundation, the MLI will provide Algebra Project-based professional development for K-12 teachers, and provide summer math and STEM camps at Springmill Learning Center.
The grant also includes funding for a FlagwayTM Conference, scheduled for Oct. 26-27, and for the development of leagues. FlagwayTM, developed by Algebra Project Founder Bob Moses and managed by The Young People’s Project (YPP), is intended to provide students with an interactive and enjoyable way to learn mathematics in a safe environment. Research shows that struggling students in third and fourth grade begin a descent, especially when beginning modules on multiplication, division, and mathematics with fractions. FlagwayTM gives these students the ability to explore these principles and extend their knowledge in a way that is enjoyable to them.
YPP Founder Maisha Moses will present the training for teachers, high school students and community members. Local school districts have committed to forming FlagwayTM leagues. The grant also provides funding for regional and national FlagwayTM tournaments.
Part of the initiative involves hiring high school students to become math literacy workers. They will assist in mentoring students in FlagwayTM and will also provide interactive activities at summer math camps. High school students may earn academic varsity letters for participation. Year one support for math literacy workers is supported through the grant.