Math Practice Program

The Chester Children’s Chorus may be the only children’s chorus with a full-time math teacher!

The Math Practice Program (MPP) began in 2018, when two girls asked for help with their math homework during rehearsal. Their question sparked others—and revealed a clear need for individualized math support. That moment became the foundation for what is now a required part of the CCC program.

Why Math?

• Nearly every child who enters the CCC is at least one grade level behind in math. In Chester, only 3% of eighth graders are at or above grade level. Math skills matter—for confidence today and for post-secondary options tomorrow.
• The impact is significant: on average, children in the Math Practice Program improve by one year in math each year. In the specific areas they practice with their math coaches, students make two years of progress.

About the Program

The CCC Math Practice Program is simple and powerful: Assess. Practice. Encourage. Repeat.

This cycle gives students the time and support they need to master concepts—and gives instructors the information they need to teach effectively.

• Assess
  Each student is assessed annually, and an individualized practice plan is created.

• Practice
  Students work on specific concepts until they achieve mastery.
  Middle and high school students practice one-on-one with Swarthmore College math coaches.
  Elementary students practice in small groups and one-on-one with the full-time math teacher, the education director, and Swarthmore College students.

• Encourage
  Small-group and individual instruction allow teachers and coaches to provide consistent encouragement, attention, and kindness—essential for rebuilding skills and confidence.

• Repeat
  The cycle repeats weekly, monthly, and yearly, allowing instructors to respond to progress and challenges while giving students the time they need to grow in skill, understanding, and confidence.

Each child in the Chorus receives an individualized math curriculum.

More than 40 Swarthmore College students serve as math coaches, working one-to-one with our middle and high school children. 

Math instruction includes interactive games and puzzles to make learning engaging and fun for our children.

Each child in the CCC practices math as much as they rehearse music.

Many math coaches work with the same CCC student for several years, developing relationships that enhance learning. 

Our children develop confidence and pride as they progress through the Math Practice Program.

Each child in the Chorus receives an individualized math curriculum.

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