Meet Kayla!
Doing all the right things to build a great foundation. Kayla is a dual subject Kumon Student who began the Kumon Math Program in the Fall of 2018 while in 1st Grade. She diligently adhered to the Kumon Method as an Early Learner and now… she can see the fruits of her labor as she enters 3rd Grade this Fall! Kayla Is a National Achievement Award recipient at the Kumon Silver Level for Q1 & Q2 of 2020 as she is performing 1.5 years above grade level and is projected to be 2 years above grade level by end of Q1 2021!
Let’s check out her Kumon journey. Kayla took the relevant placement test to confirm her appropriate “just right” starting point at Level 4A. Consistent daily work – always timed, parent graded to 100%, followed by Early Learner Achievement Tests in Levels 4A, 3A, and 2A… all scoring in Group 2 (a very strong test result displaying mastery of concepts through accuracy and timing). Her focus on timing and memorization persisted into Level A – and she then progressed into the larger addition and subtraction problems in Level B – ending the level with triple digit subtraction.
Wow. Then within half a year, Kayla was onto 3rd Grade Level C multiplication, all while still in 1st Grade! But what was truly impressive was her maturity at that age to continue to practice the hardest Level B sets again to ensure her mastery of concepts before proceeding with higher level work. And that work paid off. Kayla’s lesson plan changed as she was materially working above grade level from that point onward. She made it look easy, but Kayla is more diligent than ever, maintaining her Kumon “PSA” (Proper Study Approach) as she keeps focus on memorizing and timing with multiplication and division. At the end of April 2020, Kayla strongly passed the Level C test. Now, Kayla is riding on her momentum and is well into her Level D, 4th Grade Kumon Math…. all while just finishing 2nd Grade at school!
When asked how Kumon has helped her in school, Kayla replied, “Kumon has helped me become confident in my math studies” and adds, “I really enjoy working with and playing with numbers!”
That joy and confidence should soon apply to reading and writing, as Kayla just began the Kumon Reading Program with a running start this Summer!
Outside of school, Kayla loves dance. And during this shelter-in-place period, she’s been enjoying scootering, biking, swimming… and also making slime and crafts too!
Meet Victoria!
Victoria started both the Math and Reading Programs at our Center in January 2018 when she was in 8th grade. She completed the Kumon Reading program while a Freshman in high school and continued to work on the Kumon Math Program. Now as a rising Junior in high school, Victoria has now reached the final Level O... calculus! Once she passes the Level O Achievement Test, she will be a Kumon Dual Program Completer - Amazing!
Victoria's performance looked like a rocket ship that almost never slowed down. Within the first half year of Kumon studies, Victoria noticed how her mental calculation and processing was faster and sharper from the Math Program. She added that she could more easily analyze reading materials and synthesize her written work from the Reading Program too. She rarely wavered from her consistent daily work habits: timed pages, self-graded sets, and same-day corrections until 100% was achieved. However, when high school started, life got busier. Yet Victoria was able to maintain... and at times regain motivation to do her daily Kumon work. One of those times was after the COVID-19 SIP Ordinance went into place. And now, she's on track to complete the entire Kumon program near the beginning of 2021. Remarkable.
On top of all that, she's been a Kumon Staff Assistant at our Center for over a year and a half!
Meet Sophie and Jack!
Sophie... she brings to us the textbook Kumon story. She is finishing 2nd grade and already working on Kumon Math at a 5th grade level and Kumon Reading at a 4th grade level. She is a Kumon Honor Roll {ASHR) Student who has reached the Gold Level (2 years above grade level). This is her Kumon Math journey. In early 2019, Sophie received a perfect Pl placement test score and started at the "just right" Level 2A. Perfectly consistent daily work. Adherence to finishing work within the Kumon Standard Completion Times. A strong, steady climb upward - marked with Achievement Tests (ATs) in Group 2 (AT scores fall within a Group range 1-4, based on a combination of percent correct and time used. Group 3 is passing. Group 2 is excellent). Her Kumon Reading performance is just as impressive. Sophie added Kumon Reading in the Fall of that first year and has maintained momentum since the start. She is conservatively projected to reach both the nationally recognized "G by 4" designation (i.e., performing 7th grade Math at Kumon before finishing 4th grade) and "J by 6" (10th grade Math at Kumon while still in 6th grade)!
Jack started Kumon Math in Pre-K and added Kumon Reading right when he started Kindergarten. He is now finishing Kindergarten and already performing at the 2nd grade level in both the Kumon Math and Reading programs. Like his older sister, Jack is performing at the ASHR Gold Level (working on Kumon materials 2 years above grade level) in the Kumon Math Program. As a successful Kumon Early Learner, Jack has worked hard to increase his concentration levels. His ability to focus for longer periods of time steadily gets stronger. His mathematical calculation skills have materially increased over the past year as he completes his worksheets within Kumon Standard Completion Times! Less than a year into the Kumon Math program, Jack joined the Kumon Reading program and is already performing 1 year above grade level in Kumon Reading. Jack will be entering 1st grade in the Fall and is on pace to work on Kumon materials 2 years above grade level before he begins 2nd grade!
Meet Aiden!
Aiden has earned the nationally recognized Kumon G by 4 Star (reaching Math Level G before or during 4th grade), a significant mark of academic distinction! He joined our Center in mid-2018 as a 3rd grader but was already an experienced Kumon student from another center!
Already an advanced student, Aiden honed his study approach: concentrating on carefully taking the time to ensure even stronger intermediate work/steps and becoming even more systematic with both his worksheet organization and the writing within. He has worked very hard to develop his study approach to learn effectively. He is now taking full advantage of the online format and utilizing video instruction when he needs it - asking direct and pointed questions to specific problems he needs to solve.
Aiden was always so helpful in the classroom - willing to help the Instructor organize the class and help any student with work as well. Now, with our Zoom video sessions, Aiden is always kind and able to greet younger students online and make them feel welcome. His helpfulness extends outside of the classroom too. During this shelter in place period he's been helping his mom with a lot of extra activities. Aiden also loves to play basketball and baseball.
Aiden is now excited to work towards the nationally recognized "Level J by 6th Grade" Award and says that "Kumon has really helped me get straight A's in school!"
Meet Athena!
Increased focus, maturity and independence in 2020. Athena is currently in 2nd grade and has been a dual subject Kumon student since summer of 2019 when she just finished Kindergarten. She’s a National Achievement Award recipient performing 2 years above grade level!
Athena’s Kumon journey is awesome and relevant in today’s learning environment. From the beginning of her Kumon program, as a recent Kindergarten graduate, she embraced the tenets of the Kumon method, including daily, focused, timed work. Athena had textbook 2019 Kumon performance: simple in concept; challenging in implementation. Athena diligently attended her weekly sessions and performed a modest amount of daily homework, all timed and graded to 100%. Her habits and focus have only improved this year. Amazing in 2020.
For Reading, Athena has scored in “Group 1” (representing the highest combination of accuracy and timing) to date. Her initial focus was on letter-writing ability and oral reading fluency. Now, Athena is working hard on sentence construction: consolidating her knowledge of subject and predicate, and past tense modifiers.
For Math, timing was Athena’s initial focus. As she constantly improved upon her recorded times, Athena was able to memorize her addends during Levels 3A through A. Just a half year later, Athena was doing triple digit subtraction! As we wrap up 2020, Athena just completed her Achievement Test D, conquering long division. Now, she has just started Level E fractions working on 5th grade level Kumon math while still in 2nd grade!
Aside from her substantive progress, we really want to highlight her growing independence this year. It was truly impressive to actually see her tackle problems on her own, organize her work, and set her own goals, and navigate the new learning environment over Zoom this year… much like a student a year or two older than herself!
When asked how Kumon has helped her in school, Athena replied, “Kumon helps me learn Math and Reading. It makes me smarter!” In her free time lately, Athena enjoys drawing: anything from unicorns to Christmas “stuff” nowadays she says! Athena also loves ice cream, especially strawberry flavor or anything with mint!
Meet Alice, Claudia and Serena!
Performance, persistence, and heart – this family applies it all. We have been waiting for so long to present Alice (3rd grade), Claudia (5th grade) and Serena (7th grade), as they have collectively been with us since 2018. All sisters are National Achievement Award recipients: Alice is a Bronze Level Award recipient performing one half year ahead of grade level! And Claudia and Serena are Silver Level Award recipients performing 1.5 years above grade level!
Serena, as the oldest sibling, expresses herself so eloquently:
“Kumon has been one of the most transformative and helpful activities I have ever done. At first, I was hesitant because I thought I would not get any value out of the experience. But after lots of hard work, I am so thankful to my parents for enrolling me in Kumon. Before, I was not a bad student, but I did not really achieve greatness. Now, I have won multiple awards in school, am working on Level I as a seventh-grader, and can calculate equations in my head faster than I could have dreamed. Sometimes it is hard to stay motivated, but it is all worth it in the end.”
It’s really difficult for us to top Serena’s own words as we describe her textbook path of persistence, consistency, and resolve in her daily work. These words that might seem trite to the experienced Kumon family – but all so true.
Serena had a textbook start to the Math Program in 2019. In addition to her timed and self-graded / corrected daily sets, Serena had the maturity to self-lesson plan. She was able to recognize when she needed help and also when she needed to adjust her daily volume based on her own timing and amount of pressure felt. Serena was also always good at previewing work and assessing her ability to tackle that new material and project her near-term goals accordingly.
Her record book shows a solid multi-year trajectory from Level C to her current Level I Math. However, along that path were not only moments of stress, but also a moment mid-way when she thought of quitting. So how did Serena respond to that thought? Well, with a gentle coaching reminder to give herself permission to go easy on herself and adjust her plan, she persisted and soon after… added Reading!
Since the Summer of 2020, Serena has been smoothly ascending through the Reading program, with strong Group 2 Achievement Test results along the way. And to do all of this as a busy middle-schooler with increasing demands on time and the pressures of high school on the horizon is amazing. Serena’s list of activities just seems to keep growing:
“Outside of school, I am learning the computer programming language "Python", and am on a competitive soccer team and volleyball team. My hobbies include journaling, painting, reading, coding, and doing calligraphy. My favorite food is gelato, and my favorite flavor is either raspberry or basil.”
Claudia, the second oldest sibling, began the Math Program in 2018 and is actually the first sibling to reach a nationally ranked Gold level – performing 2 years above grade level! But that accolade might have come at a “price” as she may also have felt the most pressure of all her sisters during the first couple of years too.
Claudia also says more effectively than we could convey: “Kumon is very helpful in school because it prepares you for what’s coming in school and it’s like a heads up this what you are to be doing in school soon. I am way faster at multiplying than all my friends and I get bored in class because I have already memorized it.”
With perfect substantive scores on the first two Math Achievement Tests, Claudia’s initial 2018 goal in the Kumon Math Program was to focus on timing and build concentration levels. She accomplished both. Claudia tracked her start and end times on each set, graded and corrected homework on her own, and diligently reviewed sets again when needed. That study approach kept her on a strong upward trajectory from her initial foundational levels at 2A all the way to C and beyond. And Claudia only kept building on that approach in 2019. It was around her work on Level D long division and Level E multiplication of fractions that Claudia placed even more attention on corrections and practicing sets when she wanted to improve her completion times or increase her percentage of correct answers on the first run.
But there were times of stress when Claudia was working on Kumon Math materially above grade level. Seeing math at Kumon a year above grade level is one thing… but tackling the self-learning examples of Kumon Math two years ahead of math at school is another. Claudia increased her attention on re-working wrong homework problems in 2020. In particular, on Level F, including concepts such as order of operations, more complex work with fractions and decimals, and even word problems, Claudia examined her intermediate steps on those problems that were incorrect on the first attempt.
All that work is paying off. Claudia has reached Level G and is approaching algebraic expressions while still in 5th grade. But what is even more impressive is her concurrent review of certain Level F sets on her own accord, so that she can re-take and get an even higher score on her AT F!
Comparing her work today versus a couple of years ago, there is an even stronger sense of confidence that Claudia conveys when she works on corrections now. It seems like there is a greater calmness when she examines and works on a higher-level concept she hasn’t seen before. There is an ease in which she expresses her need for help with a problem – as she knows with an inner confidence that she’ll readily learn… and eventually master it.
It’s great to showcase Claudia’s Kumon journey – but also fun to have Claudia share things outside of academic work:
“When I am not doing schoolwork I like to bake all kinds of desserts and dishes.”
And if Claudia had to pick her favorite drink in the world, it would be: “Boba!”
Alice was in 1st grade when she started the Reading Program in 2018 and 2nd grade when she started Kumon Math in 2019. She is a Bronze National Award Recipient in 2021 Q1 performing half a year above grade level! Like her older sisters, Alice conveys the impact Kumon has had on her the best when she says:
“Kumon has helped me in many ways in school and has continued to challenge me. I have learned my multiplication facts and I’m working on division facts now.”
But before her Kumon Math journey, Alice first started with Kumon Reading:
Alice had a nice, smooth start in 2018 in the Kumon Reading program as a Kumon “early learner.” She started at Level 5A and steadily progressed to Level 2A, with Achievement Test scores after each level in group 1 or 2 along the way. (Group scores indicate results based on a combination of both accuracy and timing. A Group 3 score is passing. A Group 2 score is a strong pass. And a Group 1 score is well… amazing.) At that point, after her Achievement Test in Level 2A, she graduated from the Early Learner section and had memorized hundreds of sight words, was able to enunciate with ease, read aloud with fluidity, and was showing reading comp skills higher than the average student already.
Then in 2019, Alice moved onto Reading AI, working on making short sentences, basic expressions, and vocabulary review. She always timed her sets and corrected any mistakes on her homework. Very mature approach for such a young student. As the material increased in difficulty, Alice’s determination throughout her second year increased as well. She maintained strong Group 2 test results for Achievement Tests AI, AII, and BI. Both in terms of scoring and consistency!
In that same second year, Alice pickup up the Kumon Math Program and catapulted herself with the same focused start she had with Kumon Reading. Daily work with 10-15 minute sets. Alice consistently timed and graded her work with the goal of memorizing her addition on Levels 2A and A. That foundational work prepared her for Level B where she worked on triple digit addition and subtraction. And before that year ended, Alice was already starting to memorize her multiplication tables. Fast forward to today, Alice is wrapping up her current level and testing up to Level D, which will include long division!
Outside of academics, Alice says, “I like going on the swing and trampoline and playing outside, doing art, reading books, and playing games!”
For food, Alice says, “I do not have a single favorite food, but here are some of my favorites: ramen, watermelon, and pizza… especially homemade pizza and tomatoes!”
Meet Enzo!
Making a very challenging marathon look easy. Enzo is currently in 2nd grade and has been in the Kumon Math and Reading Program since the end of Fall 2019. He’s a Silver Level National Achievement Award recipient in Math (1.5 years above grade level) and a Bronze Level recipient in Reading (performing half a year above grade level)!
Throughout the early pandemic months and into this new year, Enzo has worked so hard to stay consistent. He worked through so many weekly periods where it was hard to find the motivation to do his daily work. But he persisted. We’re all so proud of him! Let’s check out his journey.
For both Math and Reading, Enzo had a strong textbook launch. He perfectly completed his placement assessments and started as his “just right” point – coincidentally starting at 4A for both subjects and consistently climbing through his early learner levels. He was gaining confidence as his mental strength was building. Enzo was timing his daily sets and correcting wrong answers all along the way. You could see his confidence further build as he embraced… and even relished in the daily time pressure!
Then, as Enzo approached third grade Math material as a second grader, things got more challenging as he was tasked with material not yet introduced at school. In particular, he was tasked with a seminal part of the math program - memorizing single digit multiplication. Enzo makes his record books results look easy. He focused on timing each set’s first run to help memorize his multiplication tables. In particular, the timing helped him identify wrong answers and therefore areas to focus on. Much easier said than done!
That work is paying off. Enzo is handily doing double digit multiplication and soon division. He also has his sights on long division as he approaches 4th grade math. Doing so by summer will have him working 2 years above grade level! Simply awesome.
But behind these results is a young student with a maturity and sweetness that is more evident in his work approach than scores on paper. We all know that this process is hard enough without the added challenges we all faced this last year. Sure, he’s soon approaching division well ahead of his schoolwork, but he’s also reviewing and practicing his single digit multiplication. He’s also doing work on days when things feel less confident. Yet Enzo always politely persists. And we’re so happy to do this with him all the way to program completion if he lets us.
Meet Sarah-Lily!
Correctly ascending this long-term program. Sarah-Lily was in Kindergarten when she started the Kumon Math program at the beginning of 2019. She most recently received a National Platinum Achievement Level Award for 2020 Q3. Sarah-Lily is now in 2nd grade working on 5th grade Kumon math – performing three years above grade level!
From the beginning, Sarah-Lily properly focused on timing her initial attempts and correcting any wrong answers. She consistently did her daily homework – just a bit each day – including vacations. She steadily progressed to higher levels, passing each early learner achievement test within the designated times. When she reached the important Achievement Test for Level A, she substantively passed, but had the maturity to practice and repeat the Level again in order to re-take the Achievement Test (AT) for a higher “group 2” score. (Tests group results range from 1 to 4, based on a combined measure of timing and accuracy. Group 3 is passing. Group 2 is awesome!)
By the time COVID SIP started in 2020, Sarah-Lily was working on 3rd grade multiplication while still in 1st grade. At this time, we also want to give proper credit to her parents – who diligently graded her daily homework as an early learner and kept her on pace. During this early SIP period, Sarah-Lily passed her Achievement Test for Level C. Then fast forward to September 2020, Sarah-Lily took her AT D (4th grade math) and strongly passed. Just as she was completing 1st grade at school. Incredible.
Now, Sarah-Lily is working on 5th grade Level E fractions and occasionally practicing her prior long division sets too. You can see her growth over time – both on paper and when working with her in class – whether previously on-site or online. Very mature. Very diligent. Very impressive.
When asked how Kumon has helped her in school, Sarah-Lily replied “It’s fun to learn math higher than my grade!” In her free time, Sarah-Lily has been enjoying her play dates, reading history comic books, and listening to music… especially Hamilton lately! Sarah-Lily also loves sushi, sushi and… more sushi!
Meet Julia!
A true self-learner. Julia is currently in 2nd grade and has been in the Kumon Reading program since January 2020. She’s a Silver Level National Achievement Award recipient performing 1.5 years above grade level last quarter and is now working on materials 2 years above grade level!
Julia’s Kumon journey is remarkable because she learned her Kumon study approach just a few months before our local COVID SIP ordinance was issued and was able to continue her Kumon with the same consistency throughout this year. Amidst a rapidly changing learning environment (including the birth of her baby brother on St Patrick day!), she was still able to perform focused and timed work every day. Additionally, Julia continued to complete her sets from January through December within Kumon Standard Completion Times (i.e., displaying mastery of concepts with accurate and timely work).
But what really made a difference in Julia’s performance was her family’s supportive decision to focus on the study approach and daily habits and let Julia have fun learning her new concepts through practical application and practice. Julia began her Reading program journey learning sound patterns in 3A and parts of speech in 2A. Fast forward to recent months – and it’s amazing to see how she has learned a deeper expression of language, including commonly used tenses, and how to use passive and active voices. Now, Julia has the ability to synthesize information found within more complex sentences and passages in Level CII and DI… working on 4th grade level Kumon materials while in 2nd grade. Impressive!
When asked how Kumon has helped her in school, Julia replied, “Kumon has improved my reading skills… and improved my writing! In her free time, Julia likes to read new books. Lately, she’s been reading “Press Start” and “What is America?” But what Julia most enjoys is… playing with her 9-month-old baby brother!
Meet Gabby & Vicky!
Generous and thoughtful sisters. Gabby will be in 3rd grade this Fall and is a dual subject Kumon Student. She’s been rising up the Kumon Reading Program since early 2018 when she was in Kindergarten – and began climbing the Kumon Math Program since early 2019 when she was in First Grade! Gabby has been a consistent National Achievement Award recipient every quarter since Summer of 2018. Now starting 3rd grade, Gabby is performing 1.5 years above grade level and is projected to perform 2.0 years above grade level by Summer 2021!
Let’s check out her wonderful Kumon path. Gabby readily took to the Kumon Reading curriculum as a Kindergartener, already displaying oral fluency and reading comprehension skills of a child a bit ahead of her time. And what a strong start! Starting at Reading 5A – completing 10 page sets in less than 10 minutes. At the end of each initial level, Gabby earned Group 1 results (the strongest test result displaying mastery of concepts through accuracy and timing) on all of her Early Learner Achievement Tests from Level 5A though 2A and then also through Primary Levels AI and AII.
Before the middle of 1st grade, she was performing 2nd grade material at Kumon. It was at this time that Gabby began the Kumon Math Program too. At this point, everything was running smoothly: ramping up nicely on Kumon Math and progressing strongly and steadily on Kumon Reading. In our pre-COVID classroom, Gabby was also a Student Volunteer – readily helping other students, including her own little sister Vicky, with Kumon work.
Fast forward to Fall 2019, the beginning of Gabby’s 2nd grade, and you’ll find one of our favorite parts of her journey because this is where her maturity and resolve was tested! Things were getting more challenging in Reading and Math – and this was the first time that she needed to ask for help rather than give help. Her timing and consistency were tested. Her need to time, repeat and correct Kumon homework was more important than ever. And with the higher level substance at these levels, her motivation was a risk of waning. But Gabby dug deep (say that fast five times!) and completed and passed 3rd grade Kumon work and was onto 4th Grade Kumon Levels, all while still in 2nd grade! Fantastic!
Vicky will be entering Preschool this Fall (“PK-1” in Kumon terms) and has been in the Kumon Reading Program since November 2019 (at “PK-2” or 2 years before Kindergarten)! Even prior to official enrollment, Vicky would come to the Center with her older sister and occasionally dabble with the initial Reading level in Kumon class… a good idea when starting 2 years before Kindergarten.
We all couldn’t wait to make it official! Then, during the holidays in 2019, we formalized a lesson plan to start the fun! Vicky began with Level 7A by repeating familiar words while recognizing them in printed form – thereby increasing her vocabulary by 300 words. She then progressed to recognizing and reciting a cumulative 600 words in Level 6A, and then moved onto Level 5A where she would learn individual letter sounds and begin to put those sounds together! I would be remiss to not mention a key factor to Vicky's progression to date: help from her older sister Gabby - as she would guide Vicky through the Kumon study approach – and still does today over COVID Zoom sessions – making sure her sister is properly set up and on task.
Most recently during this Summer, Vicky meticulously practiced her sets to pass her first Achievement Test 5A! And knowing the importance of review for a strong foundation, Vicky continues to diligently review foundational EL Achievement Test sound cards. Now, Vicky is just entering Pre-K, and is already on her way to graduate from the Early Learner section and move onto 1st grade Reading materials well before her Pre-K year ends! Double Fantastic!
Meet Alvin!
A persistent and consistent climber. When Alvin started the Kumon Math program in mid-2019 as a 5th grader, he wanted to reinforce his foundation in math – and so he locked into the study approach from day 1. The study approach he learned in elementary school had similarities to Kumon’s Methods, which helped him embrace the tenets of focused, timed, daily work including self-correction. Alvin received the Silver National Achievement Award for performing 1.5 years above grade level as a ranked student last quarter and he is now working on materials 2 year above grade level.
Let’s check out his Kumon Math journey. Alvin took 2 higher level placement tests [PT P6 and M1] based on his strong initial assessment [PT P4 was the benchmark test for his grade at enrollment]. This confirmed his “just right” Kumon starting point at Level D. Identifying and self-correcting minor mistakes from his initial timed sets was key. As the months progressed, you could see the “silly” mistakes dissipate and times steadily improve.
Alvin grasped the self-learning examples which steeply increased from Level E onward. His record book shows a nice, steady, consistent climb. What may not readily show on paper was Alvin’s resolve to consistently work each day during a year where self-motivation was hard. But it was apparent on his Zoom calls – a great time for observation, communication and confirmation that he was continuing on a healthy trajectory.
Looking back, you can see just how far Alvin has come: starting with foundation building with long division in Level D and fractions in Level E, and eventually to algebraic expressions in Level G, to simultaneous linear equations in Level H… well, you get the picture! Alvin is currently working on factorization and quadratic equations in Level I and is projected to reach Level J – a nationally recognized level by this Spring 2021.
When asked how Kumon has helped him, Alvin replied, “Kumon has helped me imprint the base of math in my mind.” Outside of academics, Alvin has been playing tennis this year and also enjoys playing with… their new puppy they just got a couple of weeks ago! And as a fun aside, when it comes to food, Alvin likes… well… everything!
Meet Saki!
Saki has just earned the nationally recognized Kumon J by 6 Award. This accolade is awarded to Kumon students that reach Math Level J before or during 6th grade. In Saki's case, she is now just finishing 3rd grade!
When Saki was a 2nd grader, she was a recipient of the prestigious "G by 4th Grade" Star. Saki started Kumon at our Center at the beginning of 2018. She has come so far in both Math and Reading. She has shown an incredible amount of maturity for applying consistent focus and discipline over a 2.5 year period while starting Kumon in 1st grade.
When asked how Kumon has helped her, Saki says, "Kumon has helped me improve on my focus in [both] math and reading."
During this Shelter in Place period, outside of academics, Saki has been enjoying cooking and playing soccer, which is one of her favorite activities - not only because she loves the sport, but especially because she can play with her daddy!
Meet Koji and Kenzo!
Both Kenzo and Koji have earned the nationally recognized Kumon G by 4 Star (reaching Math Level G before or during 4th grade)! Initial competition among twin brothers evolved into mutual support and encouragement -leading both of them to reach academic Kumon levels well beyond grade levels at school.
For Kenzo, as he finishes 4th grade, he is already halfway through Level H and working on simultaneous linear equations (i.e., working on 8th grade level Kumon Math before starting 5th grade this Fall). Last Fall 2019, Kenzo took the appropriate placement test and scored 99/100 using about half of his allotted time. He started at Level B - and halfway through that level, his timing and mental calculation already started to improve. He consistently did his daily timed sets, while grading and correcting any wrong answers. This continuous process through Levels D, E, and F led to Achievement Test scores in Group 2 (On a 1-4 scale measuring accuracy & timing metrics to display mastery of concepts, Group 3 is passing, Group 2 is excellent). By the time Kenzo was working through Level G, you could see the apparent growth in his skills and confidence.
Kenzo's Reading journey shows a smooth and disciplined climb. Adhering to the proper Kumon "PSA" or proper study approach he has used for Kumon Math, he has focused on consistently grading and correcting his work - and maintaining a strong daily volume for the initial five levels he started before tapering his daily sets downward. To date, Kenzo hasn't wavered from correcting his homework each day, even as he approached the latter part of 5th grade Kumon Reading material while still finishing 4th grade at school.
For Koji, he is likewise finishing 4th grade and is already working 2 years above school grade level the current Kumon Level and soon beginning Level H.
His decision to focus on the skill of concentration from the beginning has made his record book progression look smooth and effortless. However, Koji has worked hard to make it look that way! Extremely focused in the classroom, Koji continued that same level of concentration while working at home after the COVID-19 SIP Ordinance came into order.
Koji's Kumon Reading work is just as impressive, as he consistently does his daily timed homework and scores well on each Achievement Test. He will soon be approaching Kumon Reading materials at a 5th grade level as he finishes 4th grade at school!
Now, both Kenzo and Koji have earned the vantage point of seeing themselves eventually earn the nationally recognized Level J by 6th grade award!
When asked how Kumon has helped them, Kenzo says, "Kumon has helped me do all my work faster, It helped me to improve and learn a lot more than I would in school." Koji adds, "Kumon has helped me focus, work harder, and made be better and smarter on my schoolwork."
And when ask for fun - what's your favorite food: Kenzo says, "gluten free Mac n Cheese from Trader Joes!" Koji says, "my mom's gyudon!" (beef bowl!)
Meet Gracia!
Gracia is a middle school marvel. She began the Kumon Math program in late Fall of 2019 as an 8th Grader. And she just began the Kumon Reading Program as well this summer. She will be entering Freshman year of High School this Fall and has already accomplished so much.
Let’s check out her Kumon journey. For the Kumon Math Program, she gave stellar results in her placement test, and began on Level D per the Kumon Method to solidify her study approach and foundation. Gracia consistently timed, graded, and corrected her daily sets. Her first few Achievement Tests (ATs) were coincidentally conquered right before each monthly holiday, as she took her first math ATs right before Halloween, Thanksgiving and Christmas! And what is particularly impressive is her ability to maintain a high daily volume of 10 pages per day… up to present day, while still meeting Standard Completion Times (i.e., doing her daily sets within recommended times). She is now on Level L, currently working on Logarithmic equations and Derivatives. Awesome.
Gracia also recently began the Kumon Reading Program at the start of this summer. She’s on Level HI and is projected to complete the final Reading Level L before June 2021 – with timing perfectly aligned with her PSAT prep schedule.
When asked about her impressive success as a Kumon middle school program entrant, Gracia modestly states, “Although I haven’t been enrolled in Kumon for the longest amount of time, it has helped me in school because I don’t have to worry about new concepts brought up in math class. After studying with Kumon, I have confidence that I can succeed in schoolwork and don’t have to spend lots of time figuring out the topics being taught because I’ve already encountered them in Kumon.”
She might be humble about her achievements, but we can overtly celebrate her performance! It takes courage to embrace the Kumon Method at the initial stages, and ironically, sometimes more courage needs to be mustered when entering as a mature and aware middle schooler. Gracia embraced the Kumon Method and started very strong - but what is particularly impressive is that her performance stayed that way.
And outside of school and Kumon, Gracia’s favorite foods include dumplings and tiramisu. Gracia enjoys cooking, gardening, baking, playing softball, and spending time with her friends and family.
Meet Ally & Grace!
Sisters successfully treating Kumon like a marathon. Ally and Grace began the Kumon Math Program at the beginning of 2018. You can appreciate the challenges and rewards as you read about their wonderful Kumon journeys! Both are recipients of the latest 2020 Q1 National Achievement Awards Silver Level, performing 1.5 years above grade level.
Ally will be entering 6th grade this Fall and has been in the Kumon Math Program since the beginning of 2018 when she was in 3rd grade. Ally has certainly grown from working through the different stages of this long-term multi-year program. She tackled the math drills during the initial “just right” period of “easy” substantive math, memorizing and building her concentration abilities.
Then, by her first summer, Ally worked through the pivotal point at which her Kumon materials became more difficult than her current schoolwork. Per the Kumon Method, she steadily worked on her repeat sets until mastery of concepts was achieved. Then, exactly one-year in the Kumon Program, Ally conquered the mountain of Kumon Level D long division and started Level E, performing 5th grade level materials in Kumon Math, while still in the middle of 4th grade at school. Now, Ally is doing Kumon materials about 1.5 years above grade level. Her interim goal is to reach the seminal Kumon Level J, and ultimately to complete the Kumon Math Program by graduating from Kumon Level O – calculus!
Grace will be entering 4th grade this Fall and has been in the Kumon Math Program since the beginning of 2018 when she was in 1st grade. Grace has definitely put in the work at Kumon to be at a point where math at her school is relatively easier.
As a 1st grader, Grace seemingly breezed past her first few levels of Kumon Math. She diligently followed the Kumon Method as she timed, graded and corrected her worksheets each day. By the time Grace started 2nd grade, she was already working on 3rd grade materials in the Kumon Program – Level C. And by the end of 2nd grade, Grace was well into 4th grade Kumon Math materials. At this stage of working materially above grade level, Kumon Math was more challenging, but math at school never felt easier for Grace!
Her work ethic never wavered, as she followed the Kumon Method, with a particular focus on doing her corrections and repeating particular math sets whenever results called for it. When needed, Grace proactively adjusted her lesson plan by repeating certain sets to reach mastery or reducing volume to maintain motivation! Now Grace is heading into 4th Grade this Fall and is on track to start Level F – 6th Grade Math at Kumon before the end of summer! Fantastic!
When asked how Kumon has helped them, Ally says, “It’s helped me to stay with the class and when I stay with my class it helps me to do my homework and not worry about falling behind.” Grace adds, “Kumon has helped me because math is easier and when I do math [at school] I’ve already learned most of it at Kumon!”
Outside of Kumon and studying, you might find these sisters playing soccer or going to the beach. Also, during this shelter in place period, Grace might be doing word search puzzles, while Ally might be making crafts and sewing, or even enjoying fixing various things!
Meet Philip!
Philip has just earned the nationally recognized Kumon J by 6 Award (reaching Math Level J before or during 6th grade), a significant mark of academic distinction! He has worked hard throughout his time at Kumon since 2018, yet no matter how busy, he always takes the time to help his little brother Tony with his work when needed.
Philip began his Kumon journey towards the end of Summer 2018. His climb has been strong and steady. He classically followed the Kumon method of working on timing and corrections from day 1. He started while finishing up 4th grade - beginning with Kumon Level B, patiently working on his timing and meticulously correcting any wrong answers. Philip always timed his work and focused on improving his speed. That work paid off. After conquering / passing Level G, you could see the improvement in time used per set, as he progressed to Levels H and I, performing work well within Kumon "SCT" Standard Completion Time. Philip is now excited to be in that group of students well-positioned to complete the Kumon Math Program at Level 0 - Calculus!
Meet Rien & Nikhil!
Consistent and Independent. Both Rien and Nikhil are in the Kumon Reading Program and joined our Center in early 2018 as experienced Kumon Students from another local center. Both are recipients of the latest 2020 Q1 National Achievement Awards Silver Level, performing 1.5 years above grade level.
Rien will be entering 3rd Grade this Fall. He was in Kindergarten when he entered our Center in early 2018. Time flies. Within the first couple of months here, Rien quickly worked his way up to 1st grade Kumon materials. Almost every day since then, he has done his daily worksheets. Rien’s independence in the Kumon classroom extended to his work at home during SIP. Rien is on track to work on 5th grade Reading materials before he finishes 3rd grade. And he’s eyeing the coveted “G by 4” award, Kumon’s nationally recognized achievement for reaching Level G before finishing 4th grade!
Nikhil will be entering 1st Grade this Fall. He was in his first year of Pre-K when he joined us in early 2018. His Kumon performance climbed along the same trajectory as his older brother – resembling a very consistent upward climb! Nikhil’s study approach when working on new materials above grade level looks like that of an older student, as he maintains focus and confidently attempts passages and problems he has not encountered before. Nikhil is on track to start 3rd grade Kumon Reading material by the time he starts 1st grade!
When asked how Kumon has helped them, Rien says, “Kumon has helped me write stories better and read better.” Nikhil answers, “Kumon has helped me become a better speller.”
So outside of Kumon and schoolwork, what have these brothers been doing during shelter in place? Well, imagine Nikhil enjoying french toast for breakfast, jumping on trampolines, building Legos, and biking. And on a typical SIP day Rien might be playing soccer or enjoying board games or going biking with his family!
Meet Vanessa!
Vanessa is currently a 4th grader and has been in the Kumon Math Program for almost a year. She has always embraced the Kumon study approach. Throughout her time at the center, Vanessa has shown consistent improvement and is steadily increasing her calculation skills. Soon entering the 5th grade, she is working on Math Level E and will be a Bronze Award Winner (performing half a year above grade level) before the end of summer. She is showing her determination to reach the nationally recognized accolade of Level J by 6th grade!
Some of Vanessa's favorite foods are spaghetti, lasagna, and ravioli. Outside of Kumon, she enjoys feeding peanuts to squirrels in the park and biking around for exercise.
Vanessa says, "Kumon helped me do better in school [and] enrich my math skills. Kumon is also very fun!"
Meet Austin!
Austin was in Pre-K when he joined out Center and is now entering 1st grade this Fall. He started the Kumon Reading program from the beginning, constantly working to improve his study approach and concentration, while getting markedly better at his reading fluency and comprehension. Austin is currently working at a Bronze Honor Roll Level (6 months above grade level) and is headed towards starting 2nd grade Kumon reading before he even starts 1st grade!
Austin always lights up the Zoom screen with a big smile before each class. His positive attitude towards completing his work and setting goals for himself allows him to be a better student every day! Some of Austin’s favorite activities include playing with Legos and going outside to play some basketball and soccer. One of his favorite foods is chicken curry! Kumon has helped him be able to read signs as well as words on his parents’ computer!
Meet Sophia R!
Sophia (and her sister Maya) are the first students to ever enroll at Crystal Springs! Sophia is enrolled in the Kumon Math program. She just finished 6th grade and is currently on the second half of 7th grade Kumon math! Sophia is on track to begin 8th-grade Kumon materials before she starts 7th grade this fall.
Meet Sofia I!
Sofia is one of the very early students enrolled at Crystal Springs. Enrolled in the Kumon Math Program. She just finished 7th grade and working on materials in 8th grade. Sofia is on track to begin high school math before she begins 8th grade this fall! Sofia volunteers her school service hours to our Center and intends to become a staff instructor when she begins high school the year after next!
Meet Isabelle!
Isabelle is a 7th grader studying Kumon high school level Math and Reading! She is truly a self-learner, motivated to complete the program before the end of middle school!
Meet Audrey G!
Audrey is a diligent and consistent Kumon Math Student. Now just completed 2nd grade, she is more than halfway through 4th grade Kumon Math!
Meet Elina!
Elina is almost 5 years old and enrolled in Kumon Crystal Springs. She is a motivated student who loves coming into class. She started a shy student in the Early Learning section of the class and is now a confident student studying in the Main classroom among the older students! She is working on first-grade materials as a kindergartner.
Meet Gigi!
Gigi started the Kumon Math Program in 2nd grade and is currently on her way to working on materials 6 months above grade level by this summer! She embraced the Kumon method from Day 1 - methodically following her lesson plan. As a result, her levels of concentration and calculation abilities have steadily grown along with her confidence level! Additionally, she has maintained her momentum and consistently done her homework even throughout SIP.
Her effort and math skills have helped her become a more independent and motivated worker! Now entering 3rd grade, Gigi has quickly learned the value of hard work and continues to achieve the goals she has set for herself, including the nationally recognized goal of reaching Level G by 4th grade!
Gigi’s favorite sport is soccer because she’s good at it and her favorite animal is the giraffe. Gigi says, “Kumon has helped me learn and be ahead in class!”
Meet Sevi!
Sevi is currently finishing 3rd grade. She has been with Kumon for 6 months and is already rapidly approaching grade level material in Kumon… a goal typically achieved in the 9-12 month time frame! She is tackling a more challenging lesson plan at this stage and is adjusting with the curriculum.
Sevi has shown amazing improvement and always shows up to Zoom class with a smile! She will soon be entering the 4th grade and can ’t wait. She is projected to be a Kumon Honor Roll student 6 months ahead of grade level by Fall! Some of Sevi’ s favorite activities include cheerleading, soccer, basketball, and biking. She also loves spending time playing with her dogs, cat, and facetiming her friends! Sevi says, “Kumon helped me grow my reading skills and catch up with my classes when I fall behind sometimes.”
Meet Isabella S!
Isabella received our Center’s award for “Most Consistent Dual Subject Student” at Crystal Springs this year. She has continuously performed her Kumon work for the last 365 days! Amazing. Her resulting Kumon Achievement Test scores have been consistently in the highest Group 1 & 2 levels (scores that reflect both strong accuracy and timing) as a result!
Meet Dasha!
Dasha is a Math and Reading Kumon student at Crystal Springs. She is completing TK yet is already working on 2nd-grade level materials at Kumon – over two years above her grade level. She is definitely having fun by focusing on Achievement Test prizes at each level! Yesterday it was slime, today squishies, and next achievement test goal is to get squishmallows!
Meet Kirra! Two years above grade level!
Kirra is a Kumon Student that has gained some serious momentum in Kumon math lately! She just finished 2nd grade and is well into 4th Grade Kumon Math now! She remembers the challenges she faced doing 2nd grade work while in 1st grade – and now is enjoying the academic momentum she has created and earned. Kirra now has her sights set on achieving Kumon math two years above grade level: doing 5th grade math while she is in 3rd grade this fall! Kirra is also a student staff volunteer – helping other students in the class!
Outside of Kumon, Kirra has been playing soccer for a year and a half and loves it. Her favorite food is cheese pizza.
Kirra proudly says:
“Kumon made me smarter because I’m doing 4th grade math and I’m going into 3rd grade! It also made school easier and helped me be more confident!”
Meet Ashkon!
Ashkon is enrolled in the Math Program at Crystal Springs. We are so proud of Ashkon for his persistence and hard work – especially earlier on when establishing his Kumon study approach. He receives our Center’s award for most persistent student of 2019!
Meet Svara!
Svara is enrolled in our Math Program at Crystal Springs. She is finishing 1st grade and currently working on 3rd-grade math. Her results are a result of simply following the Kumon method, from ramping up from the “just right” level to doing just a little bit of homework each day in her structured lesson plan. She also follows the Kumon SCT metrics to help her determine whether to repeat certain sets. A model example!
Meet Kingston! Platinum Award - 3 years above grade level
Kingston, truly mature beyond his age, is enrolled in the Kumon Crystal Springs' Kumon Math Program. He was a 4th grader who has also received the “G by 4” Kumon accolade for reaching Level G by 4th grade. Now entering 5th grade, Kingston is currently working on high school Kumon Math at Level J – which makes him a nationally ranked Platinum Award winner (3 years above grade level). Kingston is also a volunteer who effectively helps others at all levels in class!
Outside of Kumon, Kingston loves to sleep in, enjoys eating crispy bacon, and likes tennis and swimming.
Kingston proudly says:
“Kumon taught me to be more determined and motivated in doing Kumon math. I’m currently doing 11th-grade math and I’m only in 5th grade!”