An essay by a math student

As I was leaving school this morning, I glanced over at the board with photos and articles about Jordan Catholic School. I enjoy seeing what others in our school are doing. One of my favorite things to read are the essays published in The Rock Island Argus that are written by students at Jordan. Imagine my delight and surprise when I read the following.

Enriched Math

By Molly C.

Seventh Grade

Enriched math is a wonderful program offered by Jordan Catholic School to students who have a keen interest in math. The program is for 6th and 7th graders who enjoy math, work hard in Jordan math classes, and like to be challenged with "thinking differently". Mrs. Russell is our teacher, and she makes having to come to school earlier than normal two days a week fun! Our class begins at 7:05 a.m., and we go two days a week. A commitment to get up early and start thinking when we know our friends are still eating breakfast is not always easy. Mrs. Russell manages to mix things up with not only learning from books, but also playing games and working with partners and in groups.

Math is my favorite subject in school, but I never thought of myself as a great math student. Enriched math has taught me to look at math problems in a different way and try to logically figure out math problems. It has helped me raise my math ITBS scores as well. I highly recommend this class to any younger Jordan student who is invited to participate. You and your parents will be pleased with the program. I have enjoyed the two years I have been involved in Enriched Math.


We all need a little confirmation that what we are doing makes a difference to someone. Thanks, Molly, I needed that.

The Mathman (taken from Don Cohen's website)

9 March 2008 Homeschooling mom emails Don: "Dear Don, ..I teach an enrichment math class to 6th and 7th grade students. I also tutor between 8-10 children a week separately from my work in the classroom. I am excited by your philosophy and methods. I am not a certified teacher. I just happen to be a homeschooling mom who was passionate about preventing innumeracy in my children. I read Marilyn Burns and used Miquon Math. From there I discovered Harold Jacobs' books and The Number Devil. I hate timed tests for times tables. I always want my students to find the pattern and connections between math topics. I especially want them to get excited and see the beauty of mathematics.

Would it be possible for me to come to learn from you how to better serve/teach my students. I took Calculus in high school and college, but I have had no use for it in my life. I would like to learn Calculus the way I try to teach my classes so that I can make the connection for my students". Elizabeth came to work with Don in May. She said one of the things she really liked on Don's site, was the pictures of his mathroom!

Don Cohen is my math hero. His site is not flashy, but his methods are nothing short of wondrous. I had the privilege of spending two days with him and his lovely wife, Marilyn. Watching him in action with his students is what I imagine it is like for people who claim to gain a spiritual benefit by being in the presence of their guru. Don's presence and manner with his students inspired me as much as his work, Calculus By and For Young People.