MATHCOUNTS Outreach is a group of Yale students who are committed to addressing the shortage of MATHCOUNTS programs in the New Haven Public Schools (NHPS). During the 2005-2006 school year, no NHPS school participated in MATHCOUNTS. Each week, we travel to local middle schools and work alongside NHPS math teachers to coach middle-school students on how to solve MATHCOUNTS problems. We aspire to improve students’ mathematics skills and raise test scores, show students that math is a dynamic, fun, and stimulating subject, and provide positive role models for students. This year, 400 students at 31 NHPS and West Haven schools are participating in MATHCOUNTS through the MATHCOUNTS Outreach program.

Program Goals: MATHCOUNTS Outreach has three program goals: (1) increasing achievement, (2) discovering hidden talent, and (3) building a lasting interest in mathematics.

Increasing achievement – MATHCOUNTS problems are correlated with the standard math curriculum. They reinforce concepts that students are learning in class and help them develop problem-solving skills. We supplement students’ regular math classes by providing students with additional practice on selected topics, and exploring them in greater depth.

Discovering hidden talent – Without previous enrichment opportunities in mathematics, many New Haven students have yet to realize their interest and talent in math. We are especially interested in reaching these students and sharing our enthusiasm for math with them.

Building a lasting interest in mathematics – We strive to have a broader impact on students that lasts beyond their MATHCOUNTS experiences. We hope that participation in MATHCOUNTS motivates students to put greater energy and effort into their math classes, and encourages them to continue their studies in math beyond the demands of required courses.

Collaborating Agencies: We are working with the NHPS math department, the Connecticut Society of Professional Engineers (CSPE), and the MATHCOUNTS Foundation to improve the math skills of New Haven students and expose them to the joy of mathematics. These groups provide support for MATHCOUNTS Outreach at the school, local, state, and national levels, respectively.