MATH MAGIC: “Math is very functional. It underlies so much of what we do in ordinary life. With our Mathnasium method, a thorough understanding of math and development of number sense is the goal.” Jennifer Zhang (left), director of Mathnasium of Princeton, The Math Learning Center, is shown with Alice Barfield, director of programs for the Princeton Regional Chamber of Commerce and Princeton Mayor Liz Lempert, at the center’s grand opening.

“Do not worry about your difficulties in mathematics. I can assure you mine are still greater.”

This comment by Albert Einstein is displayed on the wall of the new location of Mathnasium of Princeton, The Math Learning Center.

It is included with the sentiments of other great thinkers, as well as with the original remarks of some of Mathnasium’s students. These comments are consistent with the center’s approach to make math both accessible and enjoyable.

Mathnasium, located in the Princeton Shopping Center, opened in December, and is dedicated to helping students in kindergarten through 12th grade understand the underlying concepts of mathematics and improve their overall mathematical ability. The tutors and teachers use the Mathnasium Method designed and developed by founder and chief instruction officer Larry Martinek.

Headquartered in Los Angeles, Mathnasium has gained wide recognition, and now has more than 500 independently-owned franchises in the U.S. and Canada.

Success in Math

Whether the goal is to “catch up, keep up, or get ahead”, Mathnasium can provide the means for success in math.

Director of Mathnasium of Princeton Jennifer Zhang is enthusiastic about the center’s mission both to help students who have trouble in math class as well as to challenge those who exhibit strong mathematical ability.

“Parents will notice if their child is not doing well in math, even struggling, and they can come to us for help,” says Ms. Zhang. “In other cases, a child may be doing very well, and their parents want them to have additional challenges.

“Sometimes, even the very good students can have some gaps in their knowledge of math, however, and our job is to find and fill the gaps.”

Ms. Zhang explains that students are given an initial test to assess their level. “The instructors use our unique assessment process to determine exactly what each child knows and what they need to learn. Then we design a customized learning plan for teaching the concepts the student needs to master and offer personalized instruction.”

She adds that the instructors continually check the students’ progress to make sure they truly understand and retain the concepts. She also emphasizes that a friendly and comfortable learning environment is established in which students are encouraged to ask questions. “We provide a wonderful learning experience and environment. We want our students to be engaged and feel free to ask questions.”

Excellent Opportunity

A native of China, Ms. Zhang came to the U.S. to attend the Stevens Institute of Technology, where she earned a bachelor’s degree in computer engineering and a master’s in computer science. In addition, she obtained an MBA at New York University.

Her career path led her to banking and finance in New York City, and after 20 years in those fields, she wanted to change direction. The chance to open the Mathnasium franchise in Princeton was an excellent opportunity.

“Princeton is a perfect fit for Mathnasium, and the shopping center is a great location. I really wanted to help students do well in math and come to enjoy it. I started by helping my own daughters, and I found I wanted to help others too. One of the main reasons students struggle in math class is because they lack the prerequisite knowledge for advanced classes. This can be due to a variety of reasons, including changing schools, missing classes because of illness, etc. If these gaps are not filled, it will just become worse.”

On the other hand, she points out, “The more you do math, the better at it you become, and you are prepared to meet its challenges.”

Sessions at Mathnasium are one hour, and students usually attend two to three times a week. Typically, there are two to four students working with one instructor. The students sit at a long table, and work with pencil and paper, as well as with “manipulatives” (props) which provide hands-on understanding of mathematics concepts, notes Ms. Zhang.

Each student works with the materials in his or her binder, she adds. “The binder has materials that specifically address the student’s individual gaps and what they need to learn to build a strong math foundation.”

Learning Center

Their work is very individualized according to their needs and learning goals, but students of similar ages can work together. Also, homework help can be provided.

Ms. Zhang looks forward to Mathnasium of Princeton becoming a sought-after learning center to help students appreciate and value mathematics and build their math skills while having fun.

“We are set apart because we are very specialized and focus only on math. It allows us to be more effective. We are teaching for understanding. That is the underlying method of our curriculum and the way we teach.

“I look forward to having more students and helping them understand math and do well in school. I really enjoy seeing the kids ‘get’ it, and working with them is so much fun.”

Six month membership programs are available at the center, with classes Monday through Friday, 3 p.m. to 8 p.m. (609) 256-6284. Website: www.mathnasium.com/princeton.