Across the United States, alarm bells are ringing over the state of math education. The latest National Assessment of Educational Progress (NAEP) data show that the average mathematics score among 12th-graders has dropped to its lowest level since 2005.
- Only 22% of seniors are at or above the Proficient level in mathematics.
- Nearly *half—about 45%—score below the “Basic” benchmark.
- And these declines are seen across nearly all student groups, regardless of region, race, gender, or socioeconomic status.
It’s a sobering picture—yet it also underscores why programs like Math Corps are so vital.
Turning the Tide Through Community and Mentorship
While national scores slide, Math Corps students are moving in the opposite direction. Year after year, our middle- and high-schoolers make dramatic gains, often multiplying their pre-test scores by ten. Beyond the numbers, they leave our programs with a new relationship to mathematics—seeing themselves as capable problem-solvers rather than math-anxious learners.
This success isn’t accidental. It comes from:
- Instruction using the Socratic method in a supportive environment.
- Our signature “kids teaching kids” peer mentoring model, where high-school and college students guide younger learners.
- A culture that celebrates perseverance and growth, not just correct answers.
Growing the Next Generation of Math Educators
Perhaps even more inspiring is what happens after our students graduate. Math Corps doesn’t just create strong math students—it cultivates future math educators:
- Former campers become Teaching Assistants, teaching younger students while deepening their own skills.
- Many alumni go on to major in mathematics or education and return as college instructors, teachers, and mentors.
- Each new educator carries forward the ripple effect—reaching dozens, even hundreds of students over a career.
A Call to Action
As the Wall Street Journal recently highlighted in its coverage of the NAEP report, America’s math challenge is real and urgent. But the story of Math Corps proves that decline is not destiny. When students are supported, when mentors believe in them, and when math is taught with rigor and heart, young people rise.
Read the article here: https://www.wsj.com/opinion/u-s-math-education-crpe-report-naep-scores-648adf94
Join Us
Whether you’re a parent, a potential mentor, a donor, or simply someone who believes that every child can do math, we invite you to be part of the solution. Together, we can help students not only meet today’s challenges but also become the math educators and leaders of tomorrow.