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Lowndes County Public Schools (LCPS) hosted Math Night Wednesday as part of a Numeracy November emphasis aimed at improving students’ proficiency in math skills.

“We understand many parents feel anxious or lack confidence in their own STEM knowledge,” Jeter said. “Therefore, hosting events like this can inspire curiosity, encourage exploration and nurture a positive attitude towards learning.”

The event was held Nov. 20 in the Hayneville Middle School (HMS) Cafeteria. Not limited to only HMS students, Lowndes County Public Schools invited learners in all grades from each of the system’s schools.

“Every student in grades K-12 was invited,” said Education Specialist Susan Butts. “Parents and children came out. We had about 50 students and close to 100 people total.”

Schools partnered with Mathnasium out of Montgomery to provide games, Butts said. And, along with math-focused games, there were door prizes, snacks and giveaways.

“We’ll did drawings for four $25 Visa cards at the end,” Butts said. “All participants could complete a ‘passport’ by participating in games, then turn that in for a chance to win the drawing.”

Parents who attended discovered ways to help their child in math and learn the strategies used in class. Throughout the event, stations were set up so students could rotate through to play math games. 

“Parents can help connect STEM learning in school to the home by utilizing activities/games learned,” Jeter said. “In addition, having community support introduces and encourages students to pursue STEM careers.”

Butts said the event was designed to improve math fluency through games around concepts like addition, multiplication and other mathematical functions.

“The overall purpose of the event was, one, to encourage parental involvement,” Butts said. “But the overall purpose was to celebrate Numeracy November through the (Alabama State Department of Education) Office of Mathematics Improvement.”

Butts said the LCPS math coaches — Linda Williams from Central Elementary School, who also helped to secure Mathnasium as the primary contact, Ora Gordon from Jackson-Steele Elementary School and LaShawnta Carnes from Fort Deposit Elementary School — were instrumental in the event’s success.

“We’re getting our parents involved, but ultimately we’re trying to get a spark of interest in STEM (science, technology, engineering, math) learning,” Butts said. “The event was part of the overall STEM push in Lowndes County. Next year, we’re going to move it to the gym because we’re going to get even bigger.”