Stories, Accolades, and More

First In Math Research-Based Design, Logic Model, Efficacy Case Study. [Conducted by LXD Research, an independent research firm that evaluates educational programs with ESSA-aligned methods.] The study used a multi-methods approach to evaluating First in Math. Program efficacy was evaluated by comparing the achievement of students in the study with state averages and by measuring the correlation between product usage and Math achievement.

Even before the New York State Education Department [NYSED] chose First In Math Online as a resource to support STEM readiness for K-5 students throughout the state, Colonel Jeromus Remsen School (PS144Q in Forest Hills; CSD 28) had already signed on to strengthen two areas of focus: Math and helping students of all skill levels succeed. "In 2020, the arrival of the Pandemic highlighted the importance of supporting students," explains Nan Ronis of First In Math. Mathematics Enrichment Teacher Debra Kessler and Principal Jennifer Lucadamo created a plan that would support both Math Achievement and the school’s focus on students. Kessler initiated the implementation, energizing each class, starting with her own fourth-grade remote students. As part of a fourth-grade remote team, Ethan Chan and his peers soon became First In Math champions simply by explaining and playing First In Math while visiting other classes. "That leadership role was very important for Ethan," says Kessler. Now a fifth grader, he shares his experience with the program and how it speaks to student needs, as well as Math Achievement.

First In Math partners with New York State Education Department to sponsor statewide elementary math competition.

I spent many years working as an electrical engineer, where solving problems was a daily routine. I've also spent more than 30 years helping millions of students discover mathematics.Here is what I've learned: When a mind is anxious or fearful, it cannot solve even the simplest of problems.Why are so many children anxious about math? Many are unprepared because they do not practice.

According to the PA and the US Department of Education, The School District of Philadelphia experienced an outstanding 37.4 percentage-point increase in math scores since implementing the program in 2003.

A new Lehigh University research study on the successful use of First In Math at Marvine Elementary has been peer reviewed and published in the Mathematics Teaching Research Journal, Spring 2020 Vol 12, no 1.