Dear Everest Academy Families, We are excited to share important updates regarding our mathematics instruction.
Thy Kingdom Come!
Dear Everest Academy Families,
We are excited to share important updates regarding our mathematics instruction. As shared at the beginning of the year, we transitioned to using the enVision math program because of its strong alignment with our intellectual formation goals - particularly in developing critical thinking and problem-solving.
Teachers using enVision have shared that the math program
Promotes collaborative and student-centered learning
Allows for math discourse that builds reasoning and communication
Balances procedural fluency with conceptual insight
Results from our winter MAP Growth assessments are encouraging. Overall achievement and growth across the school were above national averages. All grade levels showed above-average achievement, and all but two demonstrated above-average growth. These results affirm that our instructional approach is supporting student learning. We will continue to monitor progress as we look ahead to spring assessments.
We also want to address a concern shared by several families regarding math fact fluency following our move away from Saxon. Please be assured that math fact fluency remains an important focus. Beginning with Term 2 report cards, “Math Fact Fluency” will be reported as a separate math skill. This will give you clear information about how your child is progressing toward grade-level expectations, based on timed fact assessments using the following scale:
Grade
Description
4
Consistently completes timed tests accurately
3
Usually completes tests accurately, with occasional errors
2
Inconsistently completes timed tests and sometimes makes errors
1
Rarely completes timed tests accurately
Please note that students will be given several opportunities throughout the year to achieve proficiency. If proficiency isn’t reached by the end of the school year, parents will be notified so that these skills can be worked on over the summer.
Since October, Everest Academy has been using SuccessMaker Math to support math instruction in the lower grades and, more recently, in grades 7 and 8. SuccessMaker was selected to provide personalized, differentiated practice that complements classroom instruction and corresponds with enVision Math.
Why SuccessMaker?
Aligns with state/national standards
Encourages deep conceptual understanding
Allows students to work at their own pace, which is beneficial for both advanced learners and those needing extra support.
Integrates technology and real-world problem-solving
Aligned with enVision Math to help ensure there are no gaps in student learning
What to Expect
SuccessMaker adapts to each student’s needs, placing them in an individualized learning path designed to strengthen skills and address gaps.
Students will use SuccessMaker in class as directed by their teacher.
Grades K-3: Students will spend 20 minutes/week in class. Completing additional 20 minute sessions in SuccessMaker at home is encouraged but not required.
Grades 4-8 will be using SuccessMaker as a weekly homework assignment.
Grades 4-6: Students will spend 20 minutes/week in class. Students are expected to complete an additional 2 sessions (40 minutes) for homework each week.
Grades 6-8: Students will be given 20 minutes/week during math class and study hall to work in SuccessMaker.. Students are expected to complete an additional session (20 minutes) for homework each week.
How will SuccessMaker affect my child’s grade?
After thoughtful review and input from teachers, we have chosen to approach how SuccessMaker will affect grades differently depending on a student’s grade level.
Grades K-3: For completing 20 minutes weekly in class, students will be given rewards determined by the teacher.
Grades 4-6: For completing 60 minutes weekly, students will be given a weekly grade. Students will earn 1 point for every minute spent in the program - e.g., if a student completes 60 minutes, they will receive 60/60 points.
Grades 7-8: For completing 40 minutes weekly, students will be given a weekly grade. Students will earn 1 point for every minute spent in the program - e.g., if a student completes 40 minutes, they will receive 40/40 points.
How Can I Support My Child?
Family involvement plays a key role in student success. To support your child:
Ask them what they’re learning in math
Explore the enVision’s online resources in Google Classroom
Encourage math conversations around real-life situations
Because SuccessMaker addresses gaps in knowledge and reinforces skills, spending more time in the program can be especially helpful for students who are struggling in math.
We value our partnership with families and are committed to providing a positive and effective math experience for every student. Thank you for your continued trust and support. If you have questions or would like additional information, please feel free to contact Mrs. Hamilton.
Sincerely,
Candy Hamilton, Principal Susie Lambert, Kindergarten
