Instructor Spotlight: Anna Mathen
Anna Mathen, Instructor of Kumon Math and Reading Center of Mira Mesa
At 90, Instructor Anna Mathen runs the Kumon of Mira Mesa Center with a joy and vitality that’s hard to miss. Anna’s Kumon journey began 27 years ago, and she has proven that her passion for education runs deep.
In 1993, she took over the Kumon of Tierrasanta Center and instantly became a firm believer in the power of the Kumon Method.
“I recognized that Kumon is a complete program – a placement test which identifies the needs of the student and an achievement test at the end of each level to see what the student has mastered,” said Anna. “I didn’t have to create worksheets or curriculum which allowed me to focus on each student’s progress. It’s very rewarding to see students develop their math and reading skills, develop greater self-confidence, and achieve greater success at school.”
Anna continues to be inspired by our founder, Toru Kumon, and lives and instructs her students by his very own words, “Seeking the boundless potential.” No matter the student, Anna always believes in their full potential and encourages them to reach their goals.
“My objective each day is to demand the best from each student and to help them stretch beyond what they think they can achieve,” said Anna.
Anna has shared her love of learning with her children and grandchildren who have all been enrolled in Kumon and have gone on to successful careers. Now, she’s looking forward to introducing her great-grandchildren to Kumon as well.
Anna’s passion and commitment are felt in the heart of this San Diego community.
What inspires you to continue to operate your Center at 90 years old?
I enjoy learning, teaching, and keeping my mind active and stimulated. I didn’t want to sit at home staring at the four walls. Kumon has given me purpose and meaning to my life. My family and friends have also told me that I’ve inspired them to stay active in their later years.
What is one uniqueness about your Center?
Well, I have to confess something. In expecting every child to perform to the highest level, you have to apply some pressure. At my Center, no child comes without work. And I do not ask parents to take of it. The child has to come and tell me exactly why he or she did not do the work. By giving them this responsibility, we rarely have a student who comes in without their work. That is something that children also get the training of being organized, getting the right date, and doing the work in the right way, so children are trained and not parents, to do all of this on their own. I never call the parent or tell the parent – I ask the children. They have to come and talk to me, which has made the Center so successful.
Who is your most memorable student?
I have many memorable students. There was a very young student who was assigned to a special needs class in school. After coming to Kumon for a few weeks, he was moved to a regular classroom and was able to keep up with the demands and routine of the class. Another student with autism was also assigned to a special needs class. He completed the Kumon Reading Program, graduated from high school, and worked at Kumon during the summer months. He’s now studying history and mathematics at the University of Notre Dame. I currently have two college students working at the Center – both have completed the Kumon Math Program and Kumon Reading Program.
What is your best advice for other Kumon Instructors?
Every Instructor will have their own approach for running their Center, but always, taking care of the children and helping them grow and succeed is my top priority.
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