Math Challenge Unites Lincoln Families and Students

Lincoln Elementary School Launches Successful Math Challenge

In January 2025, Lincoln Elementary School embarked on an innovative initiative designed to enhance mathematical proficiency among its students. The Lincoln Math Challenge, which draws inspiration from a successful literacy program at Ring Elementary School, engages students and their families to devote a minimum of ten minutes each evening to practicing essential math facts. This collaborative project not only aims to bolster students’ arithmetic skills but also fosters parental involvement in the educational process.

Principal Katie Russo highlighted the necessity of this initiative, citing the challenges many students face with fundamental math concepts such as addition, subtraction, multiplication, and division. “Many of our students struggle with basic math facts,” Russo explained. “This lack of fluency can significantly hinder their efficiency in math, which is why we sought to create an engaging framework for practice that allows parents to play an active role in their children’s learning.”

The Math Challenge involves tracking progress on a calendar, contributing an element of competition among grade levels. The classroom that demonstrates the highest level of participation will be rewarded with a hot cocoa and cookie party. This incentive not only motivates students but also galvanizes family involvement, creating a supportive community atmosphere.

To cater to the varying needs of different age groups, the challenge is tailored by grade level. Kindergarten students focus on basic addition within five and number recognition. First graders engage with additions and subtractions within 20 through interactive dice games. Second graders practice addition facts up to 12, while third graders delve into multiplication facts up to nine, and fourth graders tackle division facts through ten. This differentiated approach ensures that students are both challenged and supported, enhancing their learning experience.

Feedback from students has been overwhelmingly positive. Third grader Axel Bergman, who is part of Rhonda Ricker’s class, shared his perspective: “It hasn’t been super challenging, but it has been a little challenging. Some things are easier to do than others—mostly high numbers.” Fourth grader Olivia Anderson echoed similar sentiments, noting, “Division above like 12 is a little bit harder for me, but I do feel like it’s gotten easier as I do it each day.” Both students remarked on the joy of collaborating with their families, reinforcing the program’s objective to strengthen family bonds through educational activities.

In addition to fostering mathematical skills, the Math Challenge also includes a feedback survey for families, which has yielded an encouraging response. Terry Ortiz, a teacher on special assignment at Lincoln, reported that many parents expressed their enthusiasm for the initiative. “We received such positive comments from parents through Talking Points,” Ortiz noted. “Some even referred to it as the greatest thing they’d participated in. The key was keeping it tangible and manageable, and we plan to replicate the challenge again.”

With robust family engagement and community collaboration, the Lincoln Elementary Math Challenge stands as a testament to innovative educational practices aimed at enhancing math fluency. Principal Russo encapsulated the essence of the initiative: “It’s all about working together. When families, students, and staff collaborate, amazing things can happen.” The initiative not only targets academic enhancement but also underscores the critical role of family involvement in the educational ecosystem.