Studies show that a child’s math ability before starting school is a strong indicator of achievement as they grow. Early math both helps them to get ready for kindergarten and gets them on the right trajectory for school success later on. Despite the strong connection between preschool math skills and later academic success, only about six percent of time in the average early childhood classroom is devoted to math-related activities.
In Minnesota, the need for those early math skills is especially prevalent, as 32 percent of Minnesota’s third grade students failed the state math test in 2017—a rate which increases to 49 percent for low income families and to 63 percent by the time students reach 8th grade.
In order to help close this achievement gap and help start our littlest learners off on the track to success, we’ve introduced the School Readiness pilot. Made possible through generous support from the PNC Foundation, this early learning initiative combines PreK literacy interventions with introductory math skills into one curriculum.
“The interventions are based off our PreK model, so when tutors work with the whole class, small groups and one-on-one, we’ve added math components to all three,” explains Program Pilots Manager Alison Zellmer. “It’s a more holistic approach to making sure they have all the early literacy and math skills they need for success.”
Preschool Early Learning Specialists provide opportunities to learn math all day long through “math talk” (or vocabulary), reading math-focused books, fun and engaging targeted interventions and simple math activities families can use at home. Each activity exposes children to early math language and ideas, which ensures they’ll be ready for more difficult math concepts as they start school.
“There aren’t a lot of people in the country doing a PreK math program like we are. Tutors are coming in on something groundbreaking,” says Zellmer.
In addition to the education award and biweekly living allowance, Preschool Early Learning Specialists will be eligible to receive a bonus of up to $1,050 per year of service. They’ll also have the opportunity to use brand new curriculum and help shape how our PreK program looks in the future!
Interested in getting in on the ground level of this innovative program? We’re looking for 40 Preschool Early Learning Specialists to serve in schools across the Twin Cities Metro. Discover opportunities near you or contact Program Pilots Manager Alison Zellmer to learn more.