p style=”text-align: justify;”>In a world where oftentimes math class seems boring or irrelevant to everyday life, faculty at the Jewish Educational Center go the extra mile to innovate and embrace a philosophy of making mathematics enjoyable, interactive and relevant to students.

This week, two separate events reflected that principle and students in both the JEC Lower School and Bruriah divisions participated in math-related programs that brought students of all ages together.

First, as part of Bruriah Junior High’s leadership training curriculum, eighth graders prepared a money-themed carnival in the Bruriah gym for visiting JEC Lower School students, who were bused in for the occasion. Students enjoyed an array of interactive money-themed games and challenges that were rewarded with prizes, treats and face-painting. The games were intended to teach the younger visitors about currency, and in preparing the games, the older students not only learned different money skills as well, but were prepared to pass on those lessons to others in leadership and authoritative capacities.

Later that day, JEC Lower School grades four through six hosted a math assembly that brought students, parents and faculty together to work on mathematical problems and conversions in an effort to win points that they could then trade in for cupcakes, frosting and a variety of colorful toppings.

Student “bakers” donned professional bakers’ hats and assisted visitors in the metric conversions required to figure out the cupcake recipes. The exciting energy in the room was palpable and students claimed that math has never been more fun and applicable to their everyday lives. Some expressed appreciation for the “aha moments” of understanding that what they are being taught in the classroom actually translates into life-skills that are applicable and relevant to their everyday lives.