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Kumon Math and Reading Supports National Push toward Mathematics Benchmarks for U.S. Students
Teaneck, N.J. – (March 13, 2008) - This morning, the National Mathematics Advisory
Panel called for schools to focus on several "critical foundations" or benchmarks for U.S.
school children. These recommendations require that by the end of the seventh grade,
students should be fluent with whole numbers and fractions, and proficient with geometry
and measurements.
“We are pleased to see the panel acknowledge the need for building stronger math skills
in American children,” says Matthew Lupsha, vice president of education services for
Kumon North America. “Many high school students struggle in algebra because of their
inability to master fractions earlier on.”
The National Mathematics Advisory Panel also proposed that children should gain
mastery of arithmetic in early grades, teachers should focus on a smaller number of key
elements and textbooks should be condensed to cover fewer math topics. According to
the report, “difficulty with fractions [including decimals and percents] is pervasive and is
a major obstacle to further progress in mathematics, including algebra.”
Unless schools focus their attention on improving students’ abilities for “quick and
effortless” applications of arithmetic and algebra, the panel worries that the United States
will continue to be outperformed by other countries.
Much like the National Mathematics Advisory Panel, Kumon Math and Reading
Centers’ primary focus is helping students master the basic math concepts of addition,
subtraction, fractions and algebra as preparation for more rigorous math courses.
Yesterday, Bill Gates, a strong advocate of improving math and science education, urged
Congress to increase the use of statistics to measure student progress. Gates stressed the
competitiveness that exists in America today, and the need to do everything in our power
to “ensure that America’s students and workers have the skills necessary to compete in a
digital economy by providing them with the necessary educational opportunities and
resources.”
“American’s phobia of math must end,” says, Lupsha. “Students need mastery of basic
arithmetic in order to be creative, inventive and become leaders in the field of math and
science.”
About Kumon Math and Reading Centers
Kumon [K -mon] is an after-school math and reading program.
Celebrating its 50th anniversary in 2008, the learning method uses a systematic individualized
approach that helps children develop a solid command of math and reading skills. Through daily
practice and mastery of materials, students increase confidence, improve concentration and develop
better study skills. Kumon has 26,000 centers in 45 countries and more than four million students
studying worldwide.
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