First In Math News & Notes
A R C H I V E S

Inventor Makes A "House-Call" to Check Progress
Of Georgetown Day School Classrooms

WASHINGTON, DC—Stunned looks transformed into broad smiles as First In Math® creator Robert Sun paid "surprise" visits to several Georgetown Day School classrooms on February 28. Sun, along with Suntex Executive Vice President Nan Ronis, spoke to students and handed out FIM lanyards to some of the school's top players. FIM Team Leader and Lower School Math Coordinator Mary Lou Berres was also singled out for special recognition.

Left: Assistant Principal Rose Bednar looks on as Robert Sun presents Mary Lou Berres with a special award. Right: Berres and Sun pose with Carrie Haslett and some of her top FIM players in their 5th grade classroom.

"Put simply, the games help kids learn," says Berres. "For example, students are exposed to decimals and geometry in Know & Show, so they are much more capable when they see it in my class." Students report that Shape Shuffle and Grand Slam are among their favorite activities, but tell Berres they love the Know & Show module because it gives them hints to help them solve the problems on their own. "How many other programs encourage students to think and be self-reliant?" asks Berres.

GDS offers a challenging academic program, and is very selective about its technology purchases. "I review available products each year, and recommend FIM for funding due to its breadth of content and design," says Lower/Middle School Technology Coordinator Marti Weston, confirming the value of the program. "We use First In Math in grades one through five, and every year more girls and more minority students are participating," says Lower School Assistant Principal Rose Bednar.

"It was a lot of fun to see the kids get so excited about Mr. Sun's visit," says Julie Chlopecki, mother of two students at the small school and long-time supporter of the First In Math program. Assistant Principal Bednar agrees. "We originally planned to hold a school-wide assembly to honor our school's #2 all-grades ranking in the District of Columbia, but I think the students enjoyed the personal time with Mr. Sun even more."

First In Math vs. Nintendo Wii—The Ultimate Smackdown!

HARTFORD, CT—Philip is a huge "gamer." The active fourth-grader never goes anywhere without bringing his PSP—that's Sony's Play Station Portable for those of you over the age of 18. His mother, Susan Murray, admits she has even caught him playing in bed at night. "We recently got a Nintendo Wii game console, and Philip was CONSTANTLY asking if he could play it," says Murray. "Imagine my shock when he turned it down to finish one of the games on the First In Math site!"

A busy family with many activities, the Murrays had not had many chances to use their new Wii. "After school one day, I told the kids that when they finished their homework, they could play video games on the Wii" explains Murray. "When they finished everything, I turned it on and my other two kids began to play. I called to Philip, but he told me that he was busy doing First in Math and had to finish. I reminded him that he had basketball practice that evening and wouldn't be able to use the Wii later. He told me, 'that's okay, I'd rather do the First in Math'. I was amazed! For Philip to give up an opportunity to play video games is huge!"

"Our entire school is buzzing with excitement," says Tyrone Richardson, Math Coach at Noah Webster MicroSociety Magnet School. "Even though we started the program much later than some of the other schools, we are currently ranked 3rd in Connecticut." Richardson explains that Philip has been battling with several classmates to have the most points in the First in Math program.

Philip with his teacher, Mrs. Pam Brunell.

"The program has made math come to life at Noah Webster," says Principal Dolores Cole. "Our students are now excited about math, and this excitement has generated a healthy competition to score high!"

"All three of my kids love First in Math, but Philip is by far the most competitive," says Murray. "FIM has been a great way to combine his competitiveness and love of computer games—all while improving his math skills! I am very impressed with the program and the effect it has had on the entire school. I see the effect not only in my kids, but at the math awards and during our Aetna Math Mentoring program."

At first, Murray says she was concerned that the program might not be fair to children that don't have computers or internet access at home, but is no longer worried. "Mr. Richardson and the staff have done a great job implementing this program, and I have seen how the teachers make computers available to students before and after school and during free time. "Students are even choosing to do First in Math at recess."

More Than $125 Million In School Improvement Grants Available

WASHINGTON, DC—U.S. Department of Education has more than $125 million set aside for School Improvement Grants to help low-performing schools. Funds are authorized to address the needs of schools in improvement, correction action, and restructuring, and are to be used to leverage change and target activities toward measurable outcomes.

Monies from this grant are already being used to implement the First In Math Online Program, as demonstrated by the School District of Philadelphia's Office of School Intervention and Support. "Being able to get funding for a comprehensive program like First In Math means so much to some of these struggling schools," explains Cred Dobson, former Mathematics Curriculum Academic Content Coach for the School District of Philadelphia. "We already know that, when implemented properly, the First in Math online program will raise tests scores significantly. The program dovetails beautifully with any core mathematics curriculum, builds basic skills, computational fluency and enhances our students self esteem."

Cheryl Mason-Dorman, sitting at the head of the table, listens along with Region Intervention Administrators as Cred Dobson explains how best to maximize results after implementing the First In Math Online Program.

Cheryl Mason-Dorman, the district's Acting Director, Office of School Intervention and Support, recently held a professional development meeting for district personnel about the First In Math program. "We are acting as advocates for our children," says Mason-Dorman. "Our office collects, analyzes and shares data about the effectiveness of programs such as First In Math, to better support and create positive learning environments in our schools that lead to high achievement for all students."

As stated in the grant, expected results from use of the funds include improving student proficiency, which the First In Math program readily demonstrates (see Case Studies). In addition, each state or local education agency must implement one or more of five listed School Improvement Strategies and achieve measurable outcomes.

First In Math Players Top 100,000,000 Stickers!

EASTON, PA—As of 1:15 p.m. Eastern Standard Time on February 21, 2008, Total Stickers Earned for the 2007-2008 school year reached the 100 million sticker milestone!

"The tremendous effort that students are making this year in the First In Math program is breathtaking," says program creator Robert Sun. "In a little more than six months, students have spent more than one million hours on the site and correctly solved more than 300 million mathematics problems." Last year's record 97,193,190 award stickers took students a full 12 months to accumulate.

At this rate of progress, Sun expects the achievement of another major milestone by the end of this school year—more than ONE BILLION math problems solved since the site's debut four years ago.

New Leader Emerges in Battle for Top Spot

PHILADELPHIA, PA–Seventh-grader Ao Kong has passed Pollock Elementary's Valentino Papa, claiming the title of #1 Player in the First In Math® Online Program. Kong, who currently has 31,701 stickers, attends General George A. McCall Elementary School, located in the School District of Philadelphia's Central City Region.

Students from Pennsylvania, Maryland, West Virginia, Wisconsin and California teams make up the rest of the top 10. Competition for national awards ends April 30, 2008, and the top 10 players will receive a National FIM All Star Award. In addition, the #1-ranked player, all grades combined, will receive an Apple iTouch®.

Two Wisconsin Teams Celebrate First In Math Success

PRESCOTT, WI—Malone Elementary School Principal Scott Halverson hosted a First In Math celebration on January 31, 2008 to honor his students' math success in the First In Math Online Program. The Pierce county school is currently the #1-ranked school, all grades, in Wisconsin. Team Leaders Deborah Hunter, Kristen Kopp, Miranda Schwab and Vicki Trollen were presented with FIM Excellence Awards. Top players received medals, lanyards and keychains. Principal Halverson was presented with a special commemorative plaque by FIM representative Barbara Asteak, who attended the ceremony along with Prescott School District Superintendent Roger Hulne.

Left: Malone students remind everyone that they are ranked #1 in Wisconsin! Right: Van Brunt Principal Scott Miller and Team Leader Lisa Schultz pose with the top five players on Team Grand55wi.

On Febrauary 1 in nearby Dodge county, Horicon's Van Brunt Middle School also held a celebration for students and faculty. Van Brunt is home to the #1 seventh-grade team in Wisconsin, "grand55wi." The team also currently ranks second, all grades, in the state and 5th nationally among seventh-grade teams. The crowd, which included Horicon School District Superintendent James McCartney, clapped as Team Leader Lisa Schultz received a special acrylic award. Medals, lanyards and keychains were awarded to players, and Principal Scott Miller accepted a special commemorative plaque on behalf of the school.

Asteak, who attended both events, has high praise for Wisconsin schools. "I wish it were possible to visit EVERY school in Wisconsin," says Asteak. "The students and teachers I have been able to meet show tremendous enthusiasm, not just for First In Math, but for academics in general—it's very exciting that First In Math is a part of that!"

Wisconsin schools interested in participating in the First In Math Online Program can contact FIM representative Shannon Duncan at 563-382-6353 (office) or 563-419-4062 (cell).

First in Math® Program Goes Overseas To
Bring Unique Math Experience To Romanian School

DROBETA TURNU-SEVERIN, ROMANIA–A relatively small Romanian town along the shore of the Danube river is home to the first East European school to offer its students access to the First in Math® Online Program!

Gheorghe Titeica High/Middle School teacher Irina Zaman began using First in Math with 15 students from one of her seventh-grade classes in 2007. Most Romanian classrooms do not have computers, so students played at home or made visits to the school's computer lab during breaks or after school. Within a few days, Zaman noticed students discussing game strategy and following each other's scores—students with lower scores were even being ‘tutored' by higher-scoring students. Soon, an amused Zaman was answering student questions such as ‘Can we go to the lab to play FIM during other teachers' classes, if they're boring?' "FIM's user-friendly and entertaining interface makes my students feel they are ‘playing' when working on the site, which cannot be said about most of their homework," says Zaman.

Irina Zaman is interviewed by a Romanian TV news crew, as her team
uses First In Math in the computer lab.

"Completing FIM activities requires basic math knowledge as well as imagination, creativity, and attention to detail," according to Zaman. "I'm overwhelmed by the enthusiastic response from my students and their parents, and am pleasantly surprised to see how quickly my students got into the Top 100. My students have never been more excited about math, and I am extremely grateful for that!"

When word got out that Titeica students were competing online in a math contest and that they could compare their scores to those of American students, one of the local TV stations came to interview Zaman and her team. Local newspapers followed suit, printing weekly updates of Titeica students' ranking in FIM Top 100. Zaman hopes that all this publicity will bring more support for an idea she already believes—that math can be exciting and fascinating.

The initial 15 students received access to First In Math through a grant offered by Suntex through the Center for Mathematics, Science, and Computer Education at Rutgers University in New Jersey. However, the students and parents interested in gaining access to First in Math were so keen to use the program that they offered to pay for access themselves. And so, starting in January 2008, a new group of Romanian students will combine math with play, and find themselves immersed in the First in Math universe! (Read student comments)

Number One Player Surpasses Last Year's Record

PHILADELPHIA, PA—Pollock Elementary School's Valentino Papa is currently the top-ranked player in the First In Math Online Program with more than 26,000 stickers! Setting a record pace, Papa has already surpassed last year's record, set by Stoughton, Wisconsin's Hanna Sonsalla, who finished the program in April, 2007 with 24,408 stickers.

"The addition of three new modules has certainly increased the amount of available stickers, but Valentino is playing it very smart this year, taking his time and earning every sticker possible," explains program creator Robert Sun. Papa was also ranked #1 last year for several weeks, but topped out at 20,348 stickers and was passed by nine other players, including Sonsalla, near the end of the program. This year, he is followed closely by students from McCall Elementary, also in the School District of Philadelphia, and Glenarden Woods Elementary in Maryland's Prince George's County.

Fitler Academics Plus "Road To The Top"
Featured In Philadelphia Inquirer Front-Page Story

PHILADELPHIA, PA—Fitler Academics Plus math teacher Rachael Pringle was lauded in a front-page article in the September 10 edition of the prestigious Philadelphia Inquirer. Her mentor, fellow Fitler math teacher Lori Blue, 2006 "Teacher of the Year" for the School District of Philadelphia's Northwest Region, was also featured.

Pringle had just begun her first year of teaching at another school when she was transferred to Fitler only five weeks into the 2006/2007 school year. What could have been a disaster for the new teacher turned into a winning collaboration between two amazing educators. Rachael Pringle and Lori Blue's 5th-grade math classes had the largest increase in the School District of Philadelphia on the Pennsylvania System of School Assessment (PSSA) for 5th grade.

Much of the article focused on the effort that great teachers, such as Pringle and Blue, are willing to make to help students succeed. Pringle says their method is simple, with a "do more" attitude.

Blue, Pringle and Principal Willette Jones also gave credit for their students' success to the First in Math Online Program. The the small Germantown school was ranked #9 in Pennsylvania in the national online math program last year, and became the first school in the country to have ALL students—grades 3 through 8—complete the basic "GYM" skill modules.

Test results confirm that more than 90 percent of Fitler 5th-graders scored proficient/advanced in math. As fourth graders, only about 60 percent of the students had reached those benchmarks in math. The two graphs below show the dramatic improvement in PSSA math scores over the four-year period of Fitler's commitment to the First In Math program.

The more than 50% jump in percentage of students scoring Proficient and Above on the PSSA state standardized tests in both 5th and 8th grade took Fitler straight to the top. This amazing school was listed among the "School District of Philadelphia's Top 10 Schools" in math this year.

School's Top Achievers Receive An Unusually Tasty Award

PHILADELPHIA, PA—For those who have not had the opportunity to experience a soft Philly Pretzel hot out of the oven, rest assured it is a tasty treat. In the city, soft pretzels are a common sight at ball games, street vendors and restaurants, but top achievers in the First In Math® Online Program at AMY NW school were presented with this edible prize at school—with a twist—each had their name spelled out in PRETZEL!

Principal Marco Zanoni came up with the idea as a special way to recognize the top five students. "I thought it would be a lot of fun, and something that would get students talking," laughs Zanoni. The doughy treats were donated by Jim's Soft Pretzel Company, a local franchise that serves handmade pretzels with exceptional style.

Eighth-grader Cheyenne Salazar, shown here with a representative from Jim's Soft Pretzels and Tech Teacher Liaison Sheryl Engle, thought the award was great, as did the other top players: Tyler Hickson; Jenien Johnson; Kimberly Reed and Jasmyne Easley.

Philadelphia School District Principal
Receives 2007 First In Math® Achievement Award

PHILADELPHIA, PA—Fitler Academics Plus School Principal Willette Jones was named Northwest Region First In Math® Principal of the Year 2006/2007, and presented with the "Cred Dobson Achievement Award" by First In Math® creator Robert Sun. A special award ceremony was held on December 7 to honor Jones.

Left to right: First In Math Ambassador Cred Dobson; Director of Special Education John Murphy; Regional Superintendent Linda Grobman; Robert Sun; Principal Jones, holding the crystal award and an acrylic replica; Director of Instruction Jackie Greene and Director of School Support Services Steve Spence.

“It means a lot to me to receive an award in Cred’s name, since I have so much love and admiration for him,” says Jones.

According to her staff, Principal Jones' vision has been to excite students about learning through innovative teaching strategies that integrate technology—such as the First In Math Online Program. “The program does work to improve achievement in mathematics, especially when it is made a part of your whole school culture,” Jones explains.

"Fitler's success is nothing short of inspiring," says Sun. During the three years Fitler has used the First In Math program, the 8th grade had a 55.6 percentage-point increase in students scoring Proficient and Above on System of Pennsylvania School Assessment (PSSA) math tests. Over the same period, the 5th grade showed a 63.5 percentage-point jump, with 92.5% of students scoring Proficient and Above on the 2006 PSSA math test.

"Great Principals find something that works, and can motivate their staff and student body to use it, as Principal Jones has done," says award namesake Cred Dobson, former Academic Coach of Mathematics for the School District of Philadelphia's Northwest Region.

School Pumped Up about Math Success
After Winning First In Math® Card of the Day Contest

ALLENTOWN, PA—As students at Jefferson Elementary gathered for an assembly the morning of December 7, Principal Nick Perez asked the students if they were using the First in Math website, and almost all hands shot up in the air. Math Coach Megan Fisher congratulated the students for being the program's top-ranked elementary school in the Allentown School District, to the sound of loud cheers, and then introduced a surprise guest.

Cynthia Anderson from the First In Math Online Program joined Fisher onstage, and asked the students "do you love First in Math?" The students shouted out "yes" and cheered again. Building on the excitement in the auditorium, Anderson announced that one of their teachers, Ms. Hamman, had won the First In Math Card of the Day contest for November.

Left to right: Principal Nick Perez; ASD Elementary Math Coordinator Kelly Rosario; "Scooter7pa" Team Leader Deanna Hamman and Math Coach Megan Fisher proudly display their Winner's Circle loot!

The contest is open to all First In Math Team Leaders, and the prize—a Winner's Circle Kit, includes: 40 Pocket Editions of the 24® game; 200 FIM Certificates; 200 FIM Tickets for weekly drawings; 20 FIM lanyards; 20 FIM keychains; ten 24 Game cloisonne pins and a Grand Prize of one Apple iPod® MP3 music player.

Anderson introduced Kelly Rosario, Elementary Math Coordinator for the district, and asked the students to thank her for bringing First in Math to their school. They did so with loud applause. "First in Math is a fun and meaningful way for students to do their basic fact practice,” says Rosario.

"More than 50% of the stickers our students earn are not during school hours but at home," added Fisher. "Many parents tell us they are excited about the program and thrilled that their children are using it at home." Fisher also announced additional incentives for the students, including rewards for weekly high-sticker count, gift certificates and custody of the First in Math Traveling Classroom Trophy.

First In Math® Online Program Earns CLRN Successful Review

MODESTO, CA—After a thorough evaluation of the content-rich First In Math® Online Program, the California Learning Resource Network (CLRN) has successfully reviewed the Pennsylvania-based website. The review process utilizes California State Board of Education approved review criteria, covering three areas: Legal Compliance, Standards Alignment, and Minimum Requirements. Only resources that meet all of the CLRN review criteria are included in CLRN's database and website.

CLRN serves as a guide to standards-aligned electronic resources and assessments for teachers, administrators and parents through the state of California. CLRN experts identify, review and organize Electronic Learning Resources (ELRs) in a searchable database that allows educators to compare key features of selected resources.

"The review is posted on the CLRN site," says Kelley Day, Program Manager/Publisher Liaison for CLRN. CLRN provides educators with a "one-stop" resource for critical information needed for the selection of supplemental ELRs aligned to the State Board of Education academic content standards. The site provides information through its searchable database and links to state education technology projects and resources. (Link to CLRN First In Math Information page.)

"We are excited to be included on the CLRN site," says Nan Ronis, Suntex Executive Vice President. "The motivation to submit detailed information about First In Math's alignment with California standards really came from educators around the state who were favorably impressed with the benefits of our program, and the credential of the multi-year WestEd study. For them the challenge is, as always, identifying various funding sources to provide valuable content for their students. The CLRN review opens up funding options for schools throughout California."

School District of Philadelphia Interim CEO Among Attendees at
First In Math® Online Program Award Ceremony

PHILADELPHIA, PA—On November 8th, 2007, AMY Northwest Middle School held a special award ceremony to recognize students, staff, and Principal Marco Zanoni for outstanding achievement in the First in Math® Online Program. The tiny middle school is currently ranked 1st among schools in the School District of Philadelphia’s Northwest Region, 3rd in Pennsylvania and 6th nationally in the online math program.

Mr. Tom Brady, Interim CEO of the School District of Philadelphia, was in attendance to present awards and offer support. “What a great event—I truly enjoyed it,” said Brady. AMY Student Thair Richardson served as emcee for the event, calling top FIM players and honored guests to the podium.

Left to right: 24 Game/First In Math inventor Robert Sun; School District of
Philadelphia Interim CEO Tom Brady and AMY Principal Marco Zanoni.

Special recognition was given to Computer Teacher Leader Ms. Sheryl Engle, and Math Leader Mark Zeserman. Engle runs a FIM Morning Club where students can come in early to use FIM before school. Principal Zanoni accepted a plaque in honor of the school’s achievement during the 2006/2007 school year, when AMY finished the year #3 all grades in Pennsylvania. "I am extremely proud of our First In Math award winners," said Zanoni.

President of Suntex International Inc. and 24® Game inventor/First in Math creator Robert Sun was surprised with a large FIM poster handcrafted by students, and was also interviewed by the school's newspaper staff. Other special guests in attendance were: Ms. Linda Grobman, Northwest Regional Superintendent; Nancy Bratton, Director of Middle Schools; Jackie Greene, Director of Instruction and Mr. Cred Dobson, District Ambassador for the First in Math program.

According to Mark Zeserman, after implementing the program in 2004, AMY Northwest has made great progress in math. The school experienced a 50.1-percentage-point increase in PSSA (Pennsylvania System of School Assessment) test scores among 8th-grade students, from 18.5% in 2003 to 68.6% in 2005.

Left to right: Northwest Regional Superintendent Linda Grobman; Tom Brady
and Curriculum Director Jackie Greene.

Team Leaders Get in on the Excitement
And Challenge of First In Math

EASTON, PA—Two dedicated First In Math® Team Leaders, Kevin Tomasic and Kimberly Johnson, are currently ranked #1 and #2 nationally among Team Leaders who are playing under their own User ID. More than 600 Team Leaders have signed on to experience the site as a "Student" since the end of September.

"Our Math Coach emailed me and said that Team Leaders could now play the games and earn stickers, but I didn’t even know until recently that the Team Leaders were ranked," says Tomasic, a 4th grade math Teacher at Park Elementary in Munhall, PA. "My students told me one day that I was ranked #7 in the nation. Once I knew that we were ranked, I set my goal on 10,000 stickers. Just ask my wife about it—she complains because I am on the computer constantly," laughs Tomasic, who also has to contend with his sons for computer time. "My son Brandon is in 5th grade and is currently 5th in the school and my other son, Nathan is currently 3rd. They love the website," says Tomasic, who has already passed the 10,000-sticker threshold.

Johnson is right behind him, with nearly 10,000 stickers. "I usually check the 'News' on the Team Leader page every day, and that is where I first noticed that we could keep a sticker count of our own" says Johnson, who teaches gifted classes in grades 4 and 5 at Hollywood Florida's Oakridge Elementary. "It has been an amazing experience to play exactly like the kids do. I really did not understand a lot about each game before, nor did I understand the "plateaus" that one reaches after all the quick and easy things are done. When I reached the same point myself this year, my students couldn't wait to say 'Now you know how we feel!' They are right—I do know now."

Left: Park Elementary's Kevin Tomasic and his son Brandon. Right: Kimberly Johnson shows off her team's FIM trophy.

Johnson, a National Board Certified Teacher, thinks it is important for teachers to sample the site through their students' eyes. "It has given me a whole new appreciation for the process. I am better able to help the children when they have trouble. Last year I would occasionally have one child help another child because I was not familiar with the game they were playing. Now I know exactly what they are experiencing, and I can guide them through the solution."

"An added benefit I didn't expect is that my students are now spurred on by my sticker-count," explains Johnson, who's FIM team is currently ranked #1 in the nation, all grades. "The top kids don't want me to beat them. They check my ranking all the time and harass me like I do them. We have a lot of fun with it."

Speaking of fun, Johnson's class recently held a "First in Math Sleep Over," which was covered by the Miami Herald. "The kids had a great time and played until about midnight, with three breaks: one for dinner; one late in the evening for ice cream and one exercise break," says Johnson. "They fell asleep while watching a movie and we finally got everyone asleep about 1:30, but they were up by about six a.m. and running to the computers to play more before breakfast!" Principal Alan Gatzke provided food and beverages for the party.

Vice President of Suntex International Inc.,
Makes Presentation to the National Mathematics Advisory Panel

ST. LOUIS, MO—Barbara Asteak, Vice President of Suntex International Inc., presented the First In Math® Online Program to members of the National Mathematics Advisory Panel in September. The panel will be making recommendations on supplementary programs to President Bush and Secretary of Education Margaret Spelling later this year. Asteak began her remarks by quoting Albert Einstein, who believed that “Games are the most elevated form of investigation.”

"As the developer of the innovative 24® Game, we are committed to supporting and enhancing math education," Asteak told the panel. "Five years ago, we combined our successful 24® Game series with the power of internet technology to create the First In Math® Online Program—a program with a proven track record of improving math skills and raising overall test scores."

"It was an honor to speak in front of the National Mathematics Advisory Panel," says Asteak, from her Easton, PA office. "It is my sincere hope that EVERY student will someday have access to this wonderful program, which not only helps students develop an enthusiasm for learning, but fosters a belief in their ability to succeed."

Barbara Asteak, Vice President, Suntex International Inc.
Photo ©2007 Armen Elliot Photography

New York Elementary School Scores Two First-Place Rankings

CORONA, NY—PS16Q is home to the #1 Second Grade Team and the #1 Third Grade Team in the FIrst In Math® Online Program in the state of New York. A gala awards ceremony was held Monday, June 25 at the Queens County school to recognize faculty and students on both teams. Barbara Asteak, Vice President of Suntex International Inc., was on hand to present awards.

Math Regional Instructional Support Specialist Brigitte Belletiere with Harvey and Amy.

"Congratulations to all of the students who participated in the First In Math® Program—you are all winners!" shouted Asteak as she rallied the crowd. During the ceremony, two individual players were singled out for #1 status: Harvey is the top-ranked second-grader in NY, and holds the rank of #8 nationally; Amy is the top-ranked third-grader in NY—but also ranks #1 ALL GRADES in the state. Each player received a 24® Game gold medal, lanyard, keychain and special 24® Game hat.

"The students were genuinely happy for each other, which is great to see" says Suntex representative Nancy Kane, who helped organize the event. "That spirit of 'friendly competition' is part of what First In Math® is about. Overall, it was a nice, warm atmosphere in the auditorium—students even made a large "PS16 Award Ceremony" sign that was hanging in the background."

Team Leader of "oswego6ny," Karen Moroney recieved an acrylic Team Leader plaque, as did "diesel2ny" Team Leader Margaret O’Conner. Assistant Principal Elaine Iodice attended the ceremony, but had to leave early, so Math Coach Dedra Barke accepted a lovely wooden plaque on behalf of the school. Math Regional Instructional Support Specialist Brigitte Belletiere helped hand out prizes. "It's great to see our kids get this kind of recognition for academic excellence," said Barke.

Mingo County School District Teams Experience
Success in First In Math® Program

MATEWAN, WV—Matewan Middle School’s 28-member First In Math® online team, “Roar35WV,” was recognized for outstanding achievement at an April 25 Award Ceremony. The sixth-grade team is currently ranked #1—all grades—among the 112 active teams in West Virginia.

"All eight of the schools’ teams have, on average, outperformed other schools in the state," says First In Math® representative Brock Estes. The middle school is listed as the #1 West Virginia school in the FIM National Rankings; six of their teams are in the Top Ten. "Matewan's success is amazing, because they did not begin using the program until February," adds Estes. Many schools begin the program in late August or early September. Currently, Matewan hovers near the National Top 100.

Special recognition was given to the #1 player in West Virginia—4th-grader Josh Dean. Dean, who has earned nearly 19,000 stickers so far, attends Gilbert Elementary School. His parents made the one-hour-plus trip with him to attend the ceremony.

Fourth-grader Josh Dean is the #1 player in West Virginia. Josh is congratulated by his parents, Bill and Joy, and 24® Game inventor Robert Sun.

"The Mingo County School District has taken the ball and run with it, so to speak," says Robert Sun, inventor of the 24® game and the First In Math® Online Program, who attended the ceremony to congratulate students and present them with medals and prizes. "Many of their elementary and middle schools are doing exceptionally well in their first year in the program."

"Roar" Team Leader Brenda Davis received an elegant acrylic award, while Principal Ivadeen Hatfield and Assistant Principal Beth Keatley accepted a large plaque on behalf of the school. Math Specialist Teresa Jones, Director of Instruction Deborah Harris and Dr. Dee Cockrille, Administrative Assistant to the Superintendent, attended the awards ceremony.

Philadelphia Students Rally to Surpass
One-Million-Sticker Milestone

PHILADELPHIA, PA—"I am very proud and excited to report that Anne Frank Elementary students have surpassed the 1,000,000-sticker mark in the First In Math® program," announced School Based Math Teacher Leader Denise Montell. A mere six days after the announcement, Anne Frank students were already more than 32,000 stickers past that goal.

"As you can imagine, it is sometimes hard to motivate students at this time of year," says Montell. "But they really enjoy First In Math®, and we also gave out some of those colorful FIM wristbands as incentives to rally the troops, so to speak. I knew they could do it—they're a great group of young people!"

Principal Ellen Cooper declared that students earned the opportunity to wear jeans to school instead of their regular school uniforms. "We actually polled our students and asked them what they would like as a reward if they were able to reach one million stickers. 'Wearing jeans' was what they wanted most," she smiled. In addition, students got to play against the staff in a basketball game.

"On June 8th, our students wore their jeans to school and we played our basketball game—which I am proud to say the teachers won," says Montell. "I would like to acknowledge Mr. Jason Nash, third grade teacher for Team 'Muscle' (more than 123,000 stickers) and Mrs. Candice Smith, fifth grade teacher for Team 'Airship' (more than 117,000 stickers). Those two classes contributed nearly one-quarter of a million stickers to our school's total. Without their dedication, we could not have met our goal."

Currently, only three other schools in the nation have exceeded the One Million mark, all are middle schools: Wilson Middle School, located near Anne Frank in the School District of Philadelphia's Northeast Region; Conwell Middle School, located in the district's Central East Region and Solon City Schools' Orchard Middle School in Solon, Ohio, who tops the list with 1,731,274 stickers as of June 11. Anne Frank is the only elementary school in the nation to exceed the One Million sticker milestone.

Fitler Academics Plus Students Celebrate at Exciting
First In Math® Award Ceremony

PHILADELPHIA, PA—The tiny, makeshift assembly room at Fitler Academics Plus was filled to capacity as the school hosted a spirited First In Math® celebration on June 7. Located in the School District of Philadelphia's Northwest Region, the small school is currently ranked #9 in Pennsylvania in the national online math program.

Back row, l to r: Principal Willette Jones; FIM Ambassador Cred Dobson; Linda Grobman; Stephen Spence and Jackie Greene. Front row, l to r: 8th-grader Tiara Swain; 7th-graders Kyle Anderson and Gus Jenkins.

"We finished about 87th last year, and this year we are 9th," beamed Principal Willette Jones. "I think that speaks to our very dedicated staff, and our wonderful, enthusiastic students." Principal Jones, Regional Superintendent Linda Grobman and Curriculum Director Jackie Greene joined Director of School Support Services Stephen Spence and First In Math® creator Robert Sun in presenting certificates to teachers and awards to students.

"This is the first school that I am aware of, where ALL 296 participating students—grades three through eight—demonstrated mastery of their addition, subtraction, multiplication and division facts through completion of the Add/Subtract and Mutiply/Divide Gyms," explains Sun. "Some of us have been calling it a 'GYM blackout' because they completely wiped out those two modules!"

Fitler's top five players each received 24® Game Gold and Silver Medals. The top five players on each team received First In Math® lanyards, and all students received FIM bracelets. Computer Science Teacher John Renfro, Dean of Students Walter Hopewell and School-Based Teacher Leader Christina Sosangelis all received special acrylic plaques. Principal Jones accepted a large wooden plaque on behalf of the school.

"No matter what age you are, at Fitler it's cool to be smart," according to Fitler Gifted Teacher Denise Goodman. Students in 8th grade through 3rd grade proudly posed for photos after the awards ceremony.

The North Philadelphia school is no stranger to good publicity, and was recently featured as "School of the Week" in The Learning Key, an educational supplement to The Philadelphia Tribune that is distributed to all schools within the district.

Easton Area School District Honored for Achievement
In National First In Math® Online Program

EASTON, PA—The unusually hot day seemed almost fitting, as tiny Francis A. March Elementary school's Team "Audio60PA" is on fire, and currently the #1 fourth grade Team in the nation! The team was singled out for special recognition during a June 1 First In Math® awards ceremony held at the school. The team is also currently ranked #8 among ALL grades nationally.

Team Leader David Matthews strikes a proud pose with some of his fabulous fourth-graders.

"It is wonderful to be able to recognize students and educators from a local team!" says Suntex International Vice President Nan Ronis. Suntex, founded in 1988 by 24® Game inventor Robert Sun, is based in Easton. Sun also attended the event, and praised the school for their dedication to excellence.

Team Leader David Mathews received an engraved acrylic plaque, while Principal Judith Steinberg was presented with a large commemorative plaque for the school. Retiring District Technology Integration Specialist, David McCormick, also received a special acrylic plaque. Amy Ashton, PTA member and mother of one of the students on the team, arranged to purchase gold medals for all of the team's members, who also received lanyards and keychains from Suntex.

David McCormick and Principal Judith Steinberg show off the school's award.

Iowa Schools Battle, End Up First and Second In State
In First In Math® Online Program

CRESTON, IA—Competitiveness between the two schools was fierce, but during the last hour of play, Creston Middle School's team edged out St. Benedict's team by less than 10 points per student to win the first-ever state-wide First in Math® online competition.

Creston’s lone 18-member online team, “Tempo2IA,” was recognized May 9 at a First in Math® Award Ceremony after capturing the #1 spot among 72 Iowa teams in the program. The team is currently ranked 12th in the nation. Principal Larry Otten accepted a handsome plaque and a $500 award for the school from Suntex International, creator of the national mathematics program. FIM Team Leader Lauris Heinzel received an acrylic plaque.

St. Benedict School's teams were honored at a First in Math® Award Ceremony May 8th at the school in Decorah, Iowa. Seventh grade team “Yacht74IA” finished second in Iowa, and is currently 13th in the nation. St. Benedict School is also home to the #1 player in Iowa, Erin Voss, who also currently ranks 37th in the nation. Erin received an Apple iPod MP3 player, plus a 24® Game T-shirt and hat. Associate Superintendent Alice Conlon congratulated Principal Ruth Palmer and math teacher Patty Lien, FIM Team Leader, as the top 8 players in Iowa are all from St. Benedict School.

Erin Voss, (front row, left) with her "Top 8 in Iowa" classsmates.

"The two rival teams want to plan a video conference to meet each other," according to Tony Morrow, First in Math® representative. “I have never seen so many lead changes between two schools in any other state in all my years with the program, it was thrilling.”

Barbara Asteak, representing Robert Sun, inventor of the 24® game and the First In Math® program, congratulated students at both schools and presented them with medals and prizes.

Photo courtesy of St. Benedict School

East Ramapo Central School District Honored
For Achievement in First In Math® Online Program

CHESTNUT RIDGE, NY—"The biggest competition in East Ramapo Central School District is not based upon who has the latest 'hot' sneaker or pair of jeans," explains District Math Coordinator Terry Goldfischer. "It is how many stickers they have earned so far, and who has ranked higher than whom in each classroom. Thanks to the First in Math® program, students in East Ramapo Central School District realize the power of mathematics."

Left to right: Top players Ryan Watson and Oliver Levy pose for pictures. Terry Goldfischer and Florence Manoff receive Team Leader awards from Robert Sun.

East Ramapo Central School District students and educators were recognized for state and national achievement in the First In Math® Online Program at a stirring awards ceremony held at Fleetwood Elementary School on May 7. Eldorado Elementary School's fifth-grade Team "River55NY" was awarded an elegant wooden plaque as the # 1 Team in the state of New York. Their teacher, Mr. Heilbronn, also received a "Team Leader" award. Special recognition was given to two Fleetwood Elementary School players who rank the Top 25 nationally. Ryan Watson is currently the #7-ranked first grade player, while schoolmate Oliver Levy holds the #25 spot among third-graders. Each were each presented with a gold medal, 24® game hat, keychain and lanyard.

First In Math® program creator Robert Sun traveled to the district-wide assembly to present special awards and medals. "I am very impressed with what I see here," says Sun, who created the online math program to help students employ technology to become critical thinkers and problem solvers. "The students are amazing, and I am so proud of them. But I am also impressed with the amount of support and encouragement they have received from the teachers and administrators throughout this district."

"Every teacher I talked to today knew what level a particular student was at, what areas of the site students were most challenged by, or what seemed easy for them. That level of involvement speaks volumes to me," explains Sun.

District Math Coordinators Florence Manoff and Terry Goldfischer received awards, as did Pierre Gay, Instructional Technology Supervisor. Assistant Superintendent of Elementary Education Dr. Linda Alvarez-Cruz attended the ceremony, as did Principals from the ten area schools who were honored with Certificates of Excellence.

Number One Player in Nation Kept Unusual Goal in Mind

Stoughton, WI—Pennsylvania-based Inventor Robert Sun had no choice but to journey cross-country to a small school in Dane County, Wisconsin. Fifth-grader Hannah Sonsalla made sure of that. In attaining the #1 spot in the nation in the First In Math® Online Program, Hannah realized one of her goals—to bring Sun to Sandhill School and meet him face-to-face.

Left to right: Robert Sun; Sandhll Principal Trish Gates; 2007 #1 player all grades Hannah Sonsalla and FIM Team Leader Laura Borsecnik.

"I've played the 24® game before, in local 24 Challenge® Tournaments, and I'm pretty good at it," says the plucky 11-year-old. "But when my class got to have a First In Math® team, I was really excited, and I realized then that I wanted to meet Mr. Sun, but the only way to guarantee that was to be the top player in the country!"

Hannah has been ranked as the #1 player—ALL GRADES—in the program for several months, prevailing over close to 200,000 1st- through 8th-grade students across the country. She currently has 24,408 stickers—the most ever earned in the program—besting her nearest competitor by nearly 1,000 stickers.

"Hannah's journey to #1 was not an easy one," explains Sun, creator of the online math program and President of Suntex International. "It takes a tremendous amount of patience, dedication and strategy, as well as talent, to reach the top in this months-long program. This was Hannah's first year playing, but she was able to squeeze the maximum number of stickers from every module. I admire her tenacity."

Talented and Gifted Specialist and FIM Team Leader Laura Borsecnik had a feeling Hannah could do it. "She's very determined—and very smart," says Borsecnik. "She is also a well-rounded student, and balances her time between many other activities, including 4-H, piano and Girl Scouts. I am so proud of her." Borsecnik's Team "zeus72wi" is currently the #1 5th grade online team in Wisconsin.

Suntex VP Barbara Asteak and Sun welcomed students, parents and educators to a gala First In Math® Awards Ceremony held at the school's gymnasium on May 1 in honor of Hannah and her teammates. Hannah was presented with an Apple iPod® MP3 player. Talented and Gifted Programming Specialist Lynda Oleinik, who taught Hannah last year at Kegonsa Elementary, attended the ceremony, and praised her former student. "I have known Hannah since 1st grade, and she always has excelled in school, but I'm still a little in awe at what she has been able to accomplish this year."

In addition to Sandhill Principal Trish Gates, three other district principals were recognized: Mike Jamison; Fred Trotter and Cheryl Price. Also attending the ceremony was Superintendent Dr. Mary Gavigon; Stoughton Mayor Helen Johnson; and school board members David Handt and Ruth Fortney.

St. Thomas Aquinas School Is Home to #1
Sixth-Grade First In Math® Team

PHILADELPHIA, PA—Bob Sun, inventor of the 24® Game and developer of the First In Math® Online Program, attended a May 11 Awards Ceremony to honor students and faculty at St. Thomas Aquinas School in South Philadelphia. In their second year of the program, the tiny school's sixth-grade team has achieved the National rank of #1 sixth-grade team!

Back row, left to right: FIM Team Leader Yvonne Matherson; FIM creator and President of Suntex International Robert Sun; Assistant Superintendent for Elementary Education Mary Rochford; Principal Armond Taraborelli; Director of Government funded programs Mary-Ann Kaupp-Deangelo and Director of Elementary Services Deborah Bachor. Front row, left to right: Chhi-Chhi Heng; David Chhoeun; top player Yosua Suyanto; Johnny Lee and Julius Wibisano.

St. Thomas Aquinas is also currently ranked #5 in the Top 100 schools in Pennsylvania with five or more teams. Sixth-grader Yosua Suyanto is the top-ranked student on team "Storm72pa," and the top student among the school's eight teams, with more than 14,400 stickers. "We're all very proud of this young man," beamed his teacher Yvonne Matherson, who was presented with an elegant acrylic Team Leader award at the ceremony.

Principal Armond Taraborelli accepted a handsome plaque on behalf of the school's top-ranked team. Taraborelli credits St. Thomas students and teachers equally for creating success with the program. "Our teachers encourage participation with incentives such as homework passes, popcorn parties and positive reports to parents," he says. "These inexpensive and effective tools produce a lot of interest in the First In Math® program."

Taraborelli says he hopes to use the program for years to come. "When teachers introduce new skills, they can disappear quickly without adequate reinforcement, but FIM provides a way for students to polish new skills in a way they find fun and rewarding," says Principal Taraborelli. "I believe that this program is a fantastic tool for review and reinforcement, and we've experienced significant, measurable increases in our math scores.

Wisconsin Fourth-Grade State Champions
Also Rank Among Top Ten Teams in Nation

SHEBOYGAN FALLS, WI—Sheboygan Falls Elementary school hosted an excitement-packed First In Math® Online Program Awards Ceremony on May 2 to honor it's amazing fourth-grade team, "solar21wi." Competing against more than 10,000 teams nationwide, they are ranked #1 in Wisconsin among fourth-grade teams, and hold the #3 spot among all fourth grade teams—also ranking #10 among ALL grades nationally.

When Suntex International, Inc., developer of the First In Math® Online Program, made grants available to 100 Wisconsin schools, Sheboygan Falls Elementary jumped at the opportunity. "Making math fun for my students is a goal of mine, and this program helped me reach that goal." says Michelle Dawson, math teacher and Team Leader. "I have never seen my students so motivated to play and compete. While we had fun watching the rankings of other teams we were trying to beat, I was able to introduce new concepts to the kids as they passed levels."

Inventor Robert Sun autographed t-shirts and medals for many of the students, including top player Jacob Barthels (first picture, right). "I can't wait to play next year," beamed Barthels, as he posed for photographers and the local press.  Photos © 2007 Cynthia Sagues

Principal Joe Mukavitz was presented with a $500 gift for the school, and Dawson was given a special First In Math® Team Leader Award. All 22 team members received FIM lanyards, and the top five players also received gold medals and 24® Game keychains.

The celebration was attended by Sheboygan Falls Mayor Randy Meyer, as well as school board members John Mauer, Tom Bigler and Greg Pribek. Also in attendance were Bob Schweder, representing U.S. Senator Russ Feingold, and State Senator Joe Leibham, who addressed the large crowd of students, teachers, parents and friends filling the school's gymnasium. Robert Sun, president of Suntex International and inventor of the 24® Game, congratulated the students, and told them he was proud of their efforts. Sun also praised educators and parents.

School's Motto "Experience in Excellence"
Applies to First In Math® Program

BETHELHEM, PA—East Hills Middle School’s 20-member FIRST IN MATH® team, “Super66pa,” attained the #1 spot among all 8th grade FIM teams in the nation this week. An Award Ceremony to recognize their achievement was held during the Bethlehem Area School District’s Curriculum Board meeting on April 10, 2007.

Assistant Principal David Horvath (left), FIM Team Leader Cheryl Moyer (center) and FIM creator Robert Sun (right) pose with some of the top players after the Award Ceremony.

Robert Sun, President of Pennsylvania-based Suntex International and inventor of the 24® game and the First In Math® program, was there to congratulate top students, and present medals and prizes. Also in attendance were BASD Superintendent Dr. Joseph Lewis, East Hills Assistant Principal David Horvath and teacher Cheryl Moyer, who was awarded a special “Team Leader” plaque.

"When one student started accumulating stickers, I was amazed at how competitive the entire class became," says Moyer. "Their self-motivation was definitely evident. I am very proud of what they have accomplished!" Students earn electronic award stickers by solving math problems of increasing difficulty, then stickers are combined for a Team Total. Teams are tracked through national program Rankings.

"Students throughout the U.S. have earned more than 80,000,000 stickers so far during this school year," explains Barbara Asteak, Suntex Vice President. "That translates into thousands of kids spending thousands of hours doing MATH!"

Quiet Sixth-Grader Ranked #2 in the Nation

PHILADELPHIA, PA–General George A. McCall Elementary School is currently home to the #2 student in the First In Math® Online program. Sixth-grader Ao Kong continues to outperform more than 200,000 students in all grades across the nation, amassing more than 23,000 stickers along the way.

Front row, l to r: Zhewei Wu; Steven Wu; Ao Kong; Chanel Dupree and Kim Nguyen. Back row, l to r: School-Based Teacher Leader Eleanor Castelberry; Principal Carol Domb and Thelma Silber, who serves as "Math 24" coach for the Center City Region.

Top McCall players were honored at a lively celebration on April 10, 2007 at the small, Center City Region school. Ao was named a "First In Math® National All-Star." Barbara Asteak, V.P. of Suntex International, and colleague Nancy Kane visited the school to personally hand out prizes to Ao and her schoolmates. Principal Carol Domb praised students and staff. "We strive to provide every student with the educational skills and tools they need to to be productive and engaged citizens," says Domb.

According to "unity2pa" Team Leader, Michelle Rivera, many McCall students use the First in Math® program on their own time, during non-school hours. "Our research shows that as much as 40% of the activity on the site takes place at home," says Asteak. "We know students are improving math skills and extending their level of achievement—they think it is just plain fun because there is motivation and reward at every level, just like their favorite video games."

First In Math® Program Receives 5-Star Rating
In Current Issue of MultiMedia & Internet @ Schools

MEDFORD, NJ—The First In Math® program received an overall Rating of "5 Stars" in the March/April Issue of the MultiMedia & Internet @ Schools E-newsletter. Written by Sally Finley, a Florida-based Gifted/Technology teacher, the comprehensive review details and rates features of the program.

First In Math® Report Card
Installation: A
Content/Features: A+
Ease of Use: A
Product Support: A

"This is one of the most innovative, creative, and challenging math tools I have seen in years," says Finley, who offers hints for classroom application and recommendations along with her comments. To access the article on the MultiMedia & Internet @ Schools website, go to www.mmischools.com, and click Current Issues. (If you are not already a MM&I@S member, you will have to sign in to access the full text of the review.

First In Math® Program Represented at the
2007 NCTM Annual Meeting and Exposition

ATLANTA, GA—Representatives from Suntex International, makers of the First In Math® Online Program, traveled to Atlanta to attend the 2007 NCTM Annual Meeting and Exposition that began March 21. The colorful First In Math® booth incorporated six iMac computers, allowing educators to experience the program and "compete" for prizes.

Suntex President and CEO, Robert Sun, greeted many of the visitors himself. "The NCTM annual meeting attracts some of the most outstanding mathematics educators in the country, and every year I can't wait to hear what they have to say," says Sun. "We truly value that one-to-one dialog. In return, I hope to share with them our vision of the success they can achieve by unlocking the potential in every student through First In Math®."

The three-day exposition featured more than 1,000 presentations, workshops, and minicourses that cover all grade levels. This year's theme was “Mathematics: Representing the Future.”

Philadelphia-Area School Receives Honors;
FIM Becomes Graded Requirement Course at Leeds MS

PHILADELPHIA, PA—Morris E. Leeds Middle School students and staff were honored for their hard work and dedication at a First In Math® Awards Ceremony held Thursday, March 1, 2007. Located in the School District of Philadelphia's Northwest Region, Leeds MS is currently ranked 6th in the state of Pennsylvania among all First In Math® teams.

Left to right: Principal Stephanie Mitchell and School-Based Mathematics Teacher Nick Cirulli pose with First In Math creator Robert Sun and FIM Ambassador Cred Dobson during the Award Ceremony.

First In Math® creator, Robert Sun, presented awards to Principal Stephanie Mitchell, School-Based Mathematics Teacher Nick Cirulli and Technical Support Teacher Montik Goodwin. The top five students from each of the school's twelve teams using the program in grades 7 and 8 also received prizes. Northwest Regional Superintendent Linda Grobman, Director of Instruction Jackie Greene and Leeds SAT Team Leader Susan Nye also attended the ceremony and congratulated students and teachers on their achievement.

The success at Leeds has been a team effort. In a somewhat unique approach, Principal Mitchell created a computer course around the FIM program, titled "Computer Technology," that is a graded requirement for 7th- and 8th-graders. Mr. Cirulli and Mr. Goodwin work closely with classroom teachers and students, helping to motivate students and making sure computer lab time is used as efficiently as possible. With Regional Superintendent Grobman's full support, FIM Ambassador Cred Dobson assists schools in the region and has helped enact various incentive programs for students.

Leeds Middle School first implemented the First In Math® Online Program in 2004. In the first year of the program, student Pennsylvania System of School Assessment (PSSA) test scores in mathematics rose 16.2 percentage-points, from 17.5% to 33.7% of students scoring Proficient & Above.

Ingenuity, Teamwork and Dedication Help
New Jersey School Claim the Top Spot

UPDATE 2/7/07: Robert Sun, creator of the First In Math® program, visited Parker Annex ES February 7, 2007, to participate in a special FIM Awards Ceremony honoring their achievement. Shutters clicked as Sherwood Goodenough, District Representative for U.S. Rep. Rush Holt, read the text of a proclamation that was made on the floor of the House of Representatives to honor the FIM teams. Calling them an "extraordinary group," Rep. Holt lauded students, parents, teachers and administrators for their efforts. Also in attendance were: Vice Principal Deborah Giddens-Green; Superintendent of Trenton Public Schools Rodney Lofton and, representing the mayor's office, Samuel Frisby, Acting Director of Recreation, Natural Resources and Culture. Click here to download a PDF of Congressman Rush Holt's remarks.

Several students from Parker Annex School in Trenton receive applause from the assembled crowd during the First In Math award ceremony.

TRENTON, NJ—Fifth-grade team "isotope6NJ" from Parker Annex Elementary School in Trenton astonished many when they grabbed the top spot in the First In Math® Online Program during the second week of the new year. The team is ranked #1 nationally among all grades, and currently holds a slim lead over #2 team "cabinet2PA" from Philadelphia's Pollock Elementary.

The Mercer County school received three teams through the Trenton Board of Education in the Fall of 2006, and have maintained 100% participation ever since. "I am so proud that many students have used their evenings to commit to this mathematics program," says Vice Principal Deborah Giddens-Green.

"This is our first year in the program, but some of our students are among the highest scoring students in New Jersey!" exclaims fifth-grade teacher and "isotope6NJ" Team Leader Ed Butler. "I am so proud of them." Aside from the thrill of being the top team in the nation, Butler says he sees big improvements in his students' math skills. "They definitely are better at relationships with numbers after using FIM, and they all of a sudden realize, 'hey, I CAN do this'."

"When we began the program, the students and I had a meeting, and they decided to come up with a plan as to where they could play in addition to their limited time at school," says Butler. "These are motivated students with caring parents, but the reality is that we are located in an inner-city neighborhood, and none of them have computers at home. The kids went home that Friday night, and when we met on Monday, they had all of these great ideas!" says Butler. "Now our students play at Trenton Recreation Department Centers, at the Boy's and Girls' Clubs of Mercer County—wherever they can."

"Once we started earning stickers like crazy, they kids were so excited. At that point, we all made the decision to take it really seriously," explains Bultler. The team set goals—first to be #1 in the school. Then to be #1 in the district. Then to be the #1 5th-grade team in New Jersey, then #1 for ALL grades. "You get the picture," smiles Butler. "We kept on setting goals—right up until we were aiming for #1 ALL GRADES in the entire nation!"

Team Leaders at Parker Annex also constantly recognize students for their achievement, whether it is a pizza party sponsored by a local fraternity house, prizes donated by local stores, or in-school awards handed out for 'Max Points' or the 'Daily Top 8 Scorers'. "I believe it is really important to offer recognition to the students—it motivates them to achieve," says Giddens-Green.

click here for the full story and additional photos

Photos © 2007 Parker Annex

Competition to be "First In Math" Heats Up in Florida;
Has Positive Impact On Students

WESTON, FLÑTwo Broward County schools continue to vie for the top spot in the First In Math¨ Online Program in the state of Florida. Manatee Bay Elementary School's Team "kenosha9FL" is currently ranked #1 among all teams in Florida, followed closely by Oakridge Elementary School.

As part of a 2006/2007 pilot program in the state, nearly 70 First In Math¨ Online teams were made available free-of-charge to Florida schools who wanted to explore this unique addition to their math curriculum. "I heard about First in Math via an email sent through my district, and I am always looking for new and innovative ways to challenge my gifted 5th graders," explains Manatee Bay's Lisa Weingartner. "FIM has definitely had a positive impact on my class. Students' speed and accuracy in computation and mental math has increased greatly, and they are better able to "hold" numbers in their head while doing multi-step problems."

Manatee Bay Elementary's Team "kenosha9FL" also ranks 4th nationally among 5th grade teams. (photo © Manatee Bay ES)

"The students love the positive, academic competition and they are always eager to find out how they are doing compared to their classmates and other schools around the state and country," says Weingartner. What is impressive, according to FIM National DIrector Mark Losey, is the fact that this relatively new team is ranked #4 nationally among 5th grade teams, and #8 nationally among ALL grades. "It has been nothing short of inspiring to watch their steady progress," says Losey, who will travel to Florida to congratulate both teams in March. According to the team's top-scorer Janae, "This competition has taught me not to give up. I set goals for myself every week, and I continue to push myself until I reach that goal."

Hollywood's Oakridge Elementary boasts the #2 team in Florida, Team "skier58FL," trailing the Manatee Bay team by less than 700 points. "Our team is also ranked #2 nationally among 4th grade teams," beams Team Leader Pauline Watson, who says the online program has been an excellent way to reach students. "I've had students literally beg me to stay after school so they could use the program during the after-care hours." Watson invited fellow teacher, Kimberly Johnson, to use some of the student passwords for her team. "Ms. Johnson and I were both thrilled to see how quickly the students learned how to navigate through the different levels, and they have continued exploring the higher Skill Sets¨, teaching themselves about decimals, fractions, integers, and even algebraic equations!"

Oakridge Elementary's "skier58FL" 4th grade team poses for a group shot with Team Leader Pauline Watson. (photo © Oakridge ES)

"Students who need help with everything from the mathematical strands all the way to specific number facts can get what they need educationally from this program," says Johnson, who teaches gifted classes in grades 4 and 5. "I have been using the 24¨ game for about eight years, and my students always look forward to it. Now, with First in Math, they can play the game they enjoy with the added benefit of the technology component. Having a web-based version allows them to play at home or any time they are able, and also allows the parents to see the mathematical value of the program."

Even more important, according to Johnson, is the effect of the program on her students' view of mathematics. "I simply cannot explain in words how much my students love using First in Math! The spirit, enthusiasm and cooperation I have witnessed in my children is phenomenal! When one student passes a GYM or completes a Skill Set¨, the entire class cheers and claps as their peer gets a certificate from me. I am so totally sold on the program that if my school and/or district does not purchase the program, I will use my personal funds to be sure my students have this next year, and hopefully many years to come."

Philadelphia School Puts the "First" in First In Math!

(UPDATED 1/3/07) PHILADELPHIA, PAÑPollock Elementary School's auditorium buzzed with excitement as faculty and students gathered to celebrate the school's incredible success in the First In Math¨ Online Program. Representatives from the program, including FIM creator Robert Sun, were on hand to present awards at the December 8 ceremony.

Left to right, back row: FIM Ambassador Cred Dobson; East Region Director of Instruction Sharon Glickstein; 24 Game Inventor Robert Sun and Regional Superintendent Dr. Mary Louise DeNicola. Front row: #1 Player in the NationÑall gradesÑValentino Papa.

Pollock's statistics are impressive. Nine out of the top ten players in the Philadelphia School District are Pollock ES students. Pollock ES is also home to the #1 team in the nation among all grades, "Cabinet2pa," with an average sticker count of 2,665 stickers per student. "Not bad for a bunch of third-graders," quipped one smiling team member. Valentino Papa, the team's star player, is currently ranked #1 in the nation, all grades, and was presented with the FIM "All Star" award and a Certificate of Excellence. As of December 11, Valentino has amassed 17,752 stickers, and is on his way to becoming a member of the exclusive FIM "20,000 Club."

Andrea Miller, Director of Math at Pollock ES, is a driving force behind the school's FIM success. "First in Math is an amazing educational tool because it teaches much-needed thinking and computation skills and raises test scores," says Miller. "The best thing about First in Math is the excitement it generates from teachers, parents and especially the children. It is a vital part of the educational process here at Pollock School."

"I am very proud of of all of our amazing FIM teams, and our Team Leaders," says Principal Kathleen Quinn. "At the beginning of the school year, we set a goal of being the #1 FIM School in the state of Pennsylvania and accomplished this feat on November 15. After the award ceremony was planned, however, we were knocked out of first place by a middle school in Philadelphia. Not to be outdone, our tenacious teams dug in, and by the time Bob Sun arrived at Pollock today, the students had worked their way back to #1!"

Pollock ES also boasts several other nationally-ranked teams: #1 and #10 third-grade; #2 and #5 fourth-grade and the #3 and #8 sixth-grade teams. Neal Beitman, Leader of Team "Cabinet2pa" received a FIM Certificate of Excellence, as did 11 other Pollock Team leaders: Carol Murray; Leona Robinson; Lakisha Baxter; Susannah Lucas; Jacqueline Barton; Bruce Skversky; Lindita Zeneli; Natasha Hord; Lisa Glickstein; Debbie McCusker and Pamela MacDonald.

UPDATE: Principal Quinn recently announced that the PA Department of Education has nominated Pollock ES for 'National Blue Ribbon School' consideration. "The announcements of actual winners will be next Fall," explains Quinn. "We enjoyed reading about nearby Hill Freedman Middle School being named a National Blue Ribbon winner on your website, and I believe It cannot be a coincidence that both schools are heavily into First in Math. We have outstanding teachers and an atmosphere that values high achievement, but definitely, positively, First In Math is a key component to our success."

First "Card of the Day" Contest Winner Announced!

BEAVER, PAÑRuth Kuhlmann of College Square Elementary School in Beaver, PA has become the first winner of the First In Math¨ Card of the Day contest, sponsored by Suntex. Chosen at random from all eligible contestants for the month of November, Ruth's school will receive one Winner's Circle Program Kit!

"I can't believe it," exclaimed Mrs. Kuhlmann. "I never thought I would win, and now we will be receiving all of these great incentives for our FIM players. When I found out we won the contest, I immediately emailed our principal, Mr. Pittman, and told him that Christmas came early to College Square!Ê He is just as thrilled as we are." College Square ES's top-scoring team, "Nova39PA," is currently ranked #11 among fourth-grade teams in the state of Pennsylvania, and is ranked #55 in the country among fourth-grade teams. The team's top player, Robert Harn, was the top player nationally among third graders last year.

Team "Nova39PA," flanked by Academic Tutor and FIM Team Leader Ruth Kuhlmann and Principal Dennis Pittman.

The Winner's Circle eight-week program is designed to motivate students to advance as far as possible through FIM Skill Sets and Bonus games. Winner's Circle Kits include: 40 Pocket Editions of the 24¨ game; 200 FIM Certificates; 200 FIM Tickets for weekly drawings; 20 FIM lanyards; 20 FIM keychains; ten 24 Game cloisonne pins and a Grand Prize of one Apple iPod¨ shuffle MP3 music player.

The monthly Card of the Day contest is open to any First In Math¨ Team Leader with a 2006/2007 team. All Team Leaders need to do is correctly solve the card that appears each day on their Team Leader Home Page. Each correctly-solved card counts as one entry for that month's random drawing.

Hill Freedman Middle School Named 2006 Blue Ribbon School

PHILADELPHIA, PAÑHill Freedman Middle School, helmed by First In Math¨ Principal of the Year Diane Hathaway, has been named a 2006 No Child Left Behind Blue Ribbon School! The Blue Ribbon School designation is considered to be the highest honor that an American school can achieve, and is bestowed upon fewer than 300 U.S. schools each year. The Blue Ribbon Award honors public and private K-12 schools with at least 40 percent of their students from disadvantaged backgrounds that dramatically improve student performance in accordance with state assessment systems; and it rewards schools that score in the top 10 percent on state assessments.

"We are the first public school in Philadelphia to receive this award since No Child Left Behind legislation was instituted, explains Hathaway. "The Blue Ribbon Award signifies that we are in the top 10% of schools in the nation, and I would like to thank all students, teachers, parents, community members and our extended school district family who worked hard to help us achieve this distinction."

Receiving this important award is a result of the vision Principal Hathaway has for her school. "We consistently show that the capacity to learn is not determined or limited by race, family income, native language, gender or area of residence. Not all students come to school prepared to learn," explains Hathaway, "but we must always search for ways to reach them, and provide programs that help them grow."

Left to right: First In Math Ambassador Cred Dobson; Director of School Support Services Steve Spence; Principal Diane Hathaway; Regional Superintendent Linda Grobman; Director of Instruction Jackie Greene and Director of Special Education John Murphy pose with the Blue Ribbon School flag and awards.

U.S. Secretary of Education Margaret Spellings announced the names of the 2006 No Child Left Behind - Blue Ribbon Schools in October, 2006. A ceremony was held in Washington, DC, in November to honor the winners. "These schools show what wonderful accomplishments can be made when we focus on the bottom line in education Ð student achievement," Spellings says. Each school will receive a plaque and a flag signifying their NCLB-BRS status. (see related story below)

Philadelphia Principal Receives Special First In Math® Achievement Award

PHILADELPHIA, PA—Not even cold and rainy weather could dampen the enthusiasm of those who attended a special First In Math® awards ceremony to honor principals of top-performing School District of Philadelphia Northwest Region schools. Linda Grobman, Superintendent of the Northwest Region, hosted the October 6 ceremony, held at the Region's offices at Leeds Middle School. Hill-Freedman School Principal Diane Hathaway was named Northwest Region First In Math® Principal of the Year 2005/2006, and was presented with the "Cred Dobson Achievement Award" by First In Math® creator Robert Sun.

Northwest Region First In Math® Principal of the Year Diane Hathaway (holding award) is congratulated by: (left to right) Award namesake Cred Dobson; Regional Superintendent Linda Grobman and First In Math® creator Robert Sun. Also in attendance was Region Director of Instruction Jackie Greene.

Hill-Freedman implemented the First In Math® program during the 2003/2004 school year, and quickly achieved preeminence, attaining the Number 3 spot in the prestigious “FIM Top 100 Schools in the State” ranking. Their hard work paid off when year-end Pennsylvania System of School Assessment (PSSA) test scores in mathematics skyrocketed, showing 84.7% of Hill-Freedman's 8th grade students scoring Proficient & Above. This represented a 41.2 percentage-point jump over the previous year.

Hill-Freedman students not only maintained this high level of achievement, but extended it another five percentage points in the second year of the program, when 89.7% of 8th grade students reached the Proficient & Above benchmark. "Everyone took great pride in knowing that Hill-Freedman was the third-highest scoring school in the School District of Philadelphia on their 8th grade PSSA scores," says Principal Hathaway.

Sustaining this high level of excellence is not an easy task, but it is clear that Principal Hathaway has established a legacy of success at her school. In the third year of the program, 88.6% of 8th grade students scored P&A on the 2006 PSSA test. Even more amazing was the achievement of the 7th grade, where 94.9% scored P&A, with 78% scoring in the Advanced category.

“Hill-Freedman’s phenomenal success is due in large part to the way Principal Hathaway motivates her students—she expects them to do well and they do” says Sun. “I marvel at how masterfully Diane Hathaway has used the First In Math® program as another tool in her arsenal to create such success.”

"We teach our students to visualize where they want to be, set goals for achievement and to have a strong work ethic," explains Hathaway. "It is the work ethic of the students and teachers using First In Math® that has helped us realize our vision and goal of being a 2006 No Child Left Behind - Blue Ribbon School. Our Math Coach Hope Glover was also a major motivator." (The NCLB program recognizes schools that make significant progress in closing the achievement gap or whose students achieve at very high levels.)

Ten other principals received Certificates of Recognition "for inspiring Outstanding Mathematics Achievement" in their respective schools: Marco Zanoni (AMY Northwest School); Karen Dean (Anna B. Day School); Joyce Guy-Patton (William Rowen School); Cheryl Eisenberg (John S. Jenks School); Mark Wilicki (James Logan School); Deborah Jolley (Henry H. Houston School); Stephanie Mitchell (Morris E. Leeds Middle School); Robert Mack (Widener K-12); Sharen Finzimer (Franklin S. Edmonds); John Underwood (John F. McCloskey School).

The now-retired Dobson, former Academic Coach of Mathematics for the School District of Philadelphia's Northwest Region, had nothing but praise for his former colleagues. "I am honored to have my name attached to this First in Math® Mathematics Achievement Award," he said. "However, the kudos here belong to the people of the Northwest Region. The Regional Staff, the Principals, the School-Based Mathematics Teacher Leaders, the Technology Teacher Leaders and the 316 classes of students who spent many hours online practicing their Mathematics Skills. They accumulated more than five million stickers. Congratulations to you all—and thank you for the memories."

Tyco Electronics Foundation Funds Grant
In San Mateo County, CA

HARRISBURG, PAÑFor the past 15 years, the Tyco Electronics Corporation has been a steadfast supporter of the 24 Challenge¨ Math Program, sponsoring numerous events in Pennsylvania and North Carolina. In recent years, they have shifted a portion of their resources to the innovative, technology-based program, First In Math¨ Online. This year's First In Math¨ Program grant will focus on San Mateo County in California.

In an industry that evolves as rapidly as electronics, Tyco knows that innovative technologies help build what comes next. "In today's Information Society, that means helping schools enter the electronic age," says Mary Rakoczy, Administrator of the Tyco Electronics Foundation. "We make contributions to organizations that have a Community Impact, particularly those programs with an educational component, such as the First In Math¨ Online Program."

The Tyco Electronics Foundation is the conduit for Tyco Electronics Corporation to make charitable contributions in communities where employees live and work. To support the needs of our technology-driven world, the Tyco Electronics Foundation focuses on education, with an emphasis on pre-college math and science.

"Good communities are built around sound educational opportunities," explains Rakoczy. "We are committed to providing the First In Math¨ Program for this area, where it can take hold. Hopefully these efforts will provide the results seen in other districts that have implemented the program, such as Philadelphia Public Schools and National City in California."

Philadelphia Archdiocese Finds Success
With "First In Math" Pilot Program

PHILADELPHIA, PAÑBob Sun, inventor of the 24¨ Game and developer of the First In Math¨ Online Program, was enrolled in the fifth grade at the St. Francis De Sales School soon after arriving in Philadelphia from Shanghai, China. That was more than 40 years ago, but his dedication to the archdiocesan schools has not wavered. During the 2005/2006 school year, the Philadelphia Archdiocese collaborated with Sun to introduce the First In Math¨ online program in its schools.

The successful pilot included 25 schools that fielded a total of 122 teams in grades three and five. Among the schools is South Philadelphia's St. Thomas Aquinas, who had 125 participating students on four teams. St. Thomas students, typically from economically disadvantaged homes, represent many diverse cultures: African American, Cambodian, Thai, Indonesian, Latins from Central America and Caucasian. "Many of these students are global learners," explains principal Armand Taraborelli. "their right-brain dominance benefits from the use of manipulatives, hands-on activities, and computer graphics, and the First In Math¨ program meets their needs."

To determine what impact, if any, the activity on FIM's web site had on the Terra Nova (a nationally-normed standardized test) scores for his third-grade students, Principal Taraborelli used the group's second grade scores as a point of comparison. What he found was a significant increase in math scores, year-to-year. "Obviously, this program was a tremendous help to our students," says Taraborelli. (See chart)

Asked to identify the key to the program's success in his school, Taraborelli did not hesitate to mention the competition element—especially with fellow archdiocesan school St. Denis—and the fact that FIM is a fantastic supplement for review and reinforcement. "When teachers introduce skills, they seem to vanish without adequate exposure," mused the principal, "but FIM provides a way for students to stay in shape!"

Taraborelli also credits the interest and enthusiasm of individual teachers for the amazing performance of St. Thomas third graders. "Our teachers encouraged students with incentives such as homework passes, popcorn parties and positive notes to parents," says Taraborelli. "These inexpensive and effective tools produced a whirlwind of activity on the First In Math¨ site."

Taraborelli shared his findings with Sr. Edward William Quinn, Chairperson of the Elementary Mathematics Curriculum Committee for the Archdiocese of Philadelphia. "We are thankful that this program is providing tangible results for some of our neediest kids," says Sr. Edward.

Shonak Patel of Bethlehem, Pennsylvania,
is "First In Math" for 2005/2006

BETHLEHEM, PAÑSeventh-grader Shonak Patel of Nitschmann Middle school grabbed the #1 spot nationally among ALL grades in the First In Math Online Program. Shonak amassed a total of 22,572 stickers, surpassing his closest competitors, Sang Choi of San Diego and Enxhi Rrapi of Philadelphia. Only six students out of more than 300,000 participating elementary and middle school students nationwide topped the 20,000-sticker mark during the 2005/2006 school year!

Shonak Patel receives a 24¨ Game gold medal from Bethlehem Area School District Superintendent Dr. Joseph Lewis, as his mother and other school district members applaud.

"Shonak would play for about two hours a day, consistently," says his mother, Monica Patel. "I would tell him that it may not be enough to reach the top spot. His reply stunned me. According to him, the students who played a lot each day made careless mistakes, and did not earn the maximum number of possible points. By going slow and steady, he was earning the maximum number of points in each skill level!! As he promised me, in May he reached his goal."

"I want to encourage younger students to play patiently," explains Shonak, "as it does not matter what rank you hold in the first few months!"

Shonak just can't get enough of First In Math. "Math is his life, passion and joy. He is constantly lost in his math world," says Mrs. Patel. Part of the reason is that he has a developmental disability called Asperger Syndrome, sometimes known as high-functioning autism. Some of his teachers have named him "Little Einstein." Last year, he topped Carnegie Mellon University's summer math program for gifted students during a week-long contest. But the high point of his life was when Robert Sun sent him a personally-signed 24¨ game set early this year.

Five other students from the small Bethlehem Area School District in eastern Pennsylvania also were highly ranked in the program: Eighth-grader Jennings Luu (#5) and his sister, sixth-grader Lianne Luu (#7) also attend Nitschmann; Sixth-graders Alexa Curto (#15) and Grace Mao (#19) attend East Hills Middle School; Fifth-grader Samantha Miller (#27) attends Spring Garden Middle School. Each of these amazing players earned more than 10,000 award stickers, a feat accomplished by only 45 players. These students, along with their teachers and principals, were honored during a district Board Curriculum meeting on March 13, 2006 before an audience of district administrators and board members.

Fairfax County, Virginia, School Receives First In Math¨ Honors

ALEXANDRIA, VAÑStudents from Bren Mar Park Elementary School were honored at a First In Math¨ awards assembly on June 13. Six Bren Mar Park FIM teams earned first place honors in the stateÑand among other schools in the Fairfax County Public School DistrictÑcompeting against more than 2,000 of their fellow elementary- and middle-school students.

Front row, left to right: Shareen Arshad, Nardos Assefa and Angel Ly. Back row, left to right: Rochelle Day, Bren Mar Park Math Coordinator; Cecelia Krill, Cluster Three Director - Fairfax County Schools; Jackie Johnson, Bren Mar Park Technology Assistant and Susan Fitz, Principal.

Fourth grade student Shareen Arshad is ranked 83rd nationally among fourth graders and 8th among all players in Virginia. Five Bren Mar Park students also rank among the top 100 players in the state: fifth grade student Angel Ly, ranked 3rd; fifth grade student Nardos Assefa, ranked 10th; fifth grade student Dana Filipczyk, ranked 18th; fourth grade student Emily Vo, ranked 45th; and fifth grade student Antonio Alves, ranked 58th.

Students and Team Leaders were presented with awards, certificates and medals by Suntex Vice President Barbara Asteak, who also congratulated local administrators. "We are thrilled to have the opportunity to recognize not only these amazing students, but also the many dedicated educators who work so hard to provide an environment of academic excellence," said Asteak.

Willow Hill Elementary Students Honored for District-Wide Achievement

GLENSIDE, PAÑA select group of sixth-grade students at Willow Hill Elementary School were presented with special First In Math¨ Program awards March 3. The top five students on Team "Chase 5 PA" were presented with medals and special FIM Award Certificates for outstanding achievement. "Chase 5 PA" is the #1 Team in the First In Math Online Program among all five elementary schools in the Abington School District.

Far right, rear: Jody Hecker, representing the First In Math Online Program and FIM Team Leader Jean Sneade pose with Team Chase 5 PA.

Willow Hill sixth-grade teacher, and proud Team Leader, Jean M. Sneade is especially excited about her students' accomplishment this year, and is a strong supporter of the First In Math Online Program in the Abington School District. "The students are very Ôcomputer-game oriented,' so this fits in with their lifestyle," commented Sneade. "My students enjoy competing against each other, as well as competing as a team."

Willow Hill Elementary students are also actively involved with their school district's 24 Challenge¨ Math Program, using the actual 24¨ game cards in tournament-style play. "It is interesting to see how some children who are not necessarily at the top of their class in math are stars of the game," Sneade stated.

Four Philadelphia Schools Receive Awards
for Outstanding Math Achievement

PHILADELPHIA, PAÑStudents and Team Leaders from Conwell Middle School received special accolades from program creator Robert Sun at a May 30 Award Ceremony assembly attended by Philadelphia School District administrators and Principal Ed Hoffman.

Conwell Middle School is ranked #1 in Pennsylvania in the First In Math¨ Online Program. Conwell's 647 participating students, led by technology teacher Maryanne McCabe, competed against more than 300,000 other elementary- and middle-school students actively engaged in the program in the 2005/2006 school year.

Robert Sun (rear, left) joins top performers at Conwell Middle School. Also in attendance were: Lucy Rodriguez-Feria, Regional Superintendent of the Central East Region in the Philadelphia School District; Renee Singeltary, special events coordinator at Conwell; FIM Team Leader Mr. Boicesco and Principal Ed Hoffman.

"We are proud to enhance mathematics education for students through the First In Math program," said Lucy Rodriguez-Feria, Superintendent of Philadelphia's Central East Region. "This initiative offers a fun and innovative learning experience for children in math and technology to prepare them with critical skills for the future. Today's event at Conwell Middle School celebrates students' enthusiasm for math and serves as an inspiration to all of us."

Three additional School District of Philadelphia Schools received awards on May 30: Mayfair Elementary School (East Region)Ñthe #5 FIM school in Pennsylvania; Kirkbride Elementary School (South Region)Ñthe #8 FIM school in Pennsylvania and Shoemaker Middle School (West Region)Ñthe #9 FIM school in PA.

Above, left to right: Robert Sun; Victoria Magness, Kirkbride Principal and John Trangipani, Regional Superintendent, present the FIM Award of Excellence to Sam Keo (holding certificate), Math Chair at Kirkbride Elementary School.

"We would like to thank Mr. Sun for taking time to be with us at our First In Math award assembly," said Kirkbride Principal Victoria Magness. "Your presence made the assembly more meaningful and special. Thank you also for your dedication and hard work in awarding our students with medals and prizes. We are truly appreciative. Our students and staff will always remember this momentous event."

"I think everyone should congratulate the students in these schools for their outstanding achievement in math," said Robert Sun, Creator of the First In Math program. "The 21st century will be defined by technological, scientific and mathematical advancement and America's prominence in this age cannot be assured without talented students. Praise must also be given to the teachers at Conwell, Mayfair and Kirkbride and Shoemaker for providing an environment for achievement and the School District of Philadelphia for offering this program to highlight scholastic excellence."

Dedicated Educator Honored by Colleagues

Cred Dobson, Academic Coach, Mathematics, for the School District of Philadelphia's Northwest Region, was honored by fellow educators and friends on May 12, 2006 with a retirement party hosted by Region Superintendent Linda Grobman and Region Director of Instruction Jackie Greene.

In recognition of his 41 years of service, Dobson was presented with myriad honors, including a Lifetime Achievement Award from Robert Sun, creator of the First In Math¨ online program. "Cred has been tireless in his pursuit of excellence in mathematics education," says Sun. "This is a man who goes out to the schools, who talks with kids and teachers, and gets them excited about math."

"After all these years, he remains passionate about education, and open to new teaching tools, such as the First In Math¨ online program," explains Sun. "Cred was instrumental in promoting the program when it was new to the district, and we would like to show our appreciation by announcing the beginning of an annual First In Math¨ Cred Dobson Lifetime Achievement Award. The award will be open to principals in the Northwest Region who share the same dedication to students and enthusiasm for what they can achieve that Cred has expemplified during the course of his career."

Dobson, holding his Lifetime Achievement Award, and Robert Sun.

Photo © 2006

Maryland Elementary School Student Honored
for National Achievement in First In Math¨ Program

Prince George's County's Glenarden Woods Elementary School is home to the nation's top-ranked second-grader in the First In Math¨ Online Program. Caleb McCammon has earned more than 9,900 award stickers, placing him in an elite group of students. Fewer than 50 of the more than 300,000 elementary- and middle-school students nationwide make it into this scoring tier—this amazing second-grader is ranked #36!

McCammon received a gold medal and a special award from program creator Robert Sun during a ceremony held May 12. McCammon's team, "System 5 MD," led by Glenarden Woods teacher David Doran, was also honored as the 6th-ranked second-grade team competing in the program. Mrs. Oretha Bridgewater, Region 2 Director for Prince George's County, was one of several County Administrators who attended event. Dr. Jeanne Paynter of the Maryland State Department of Education was on hand for the awards presentation, as were Judith Russ and Diane Kendrick, Mathematics Supervisors for Prince George's County.

Above, Caleb displays his Certificate of Excellence to the press. Below, adults in photo (l to r): Cynthia Jones-Bowlding, Principal of Glenarden Woods ES; Dave Doran, "System 5 MD" Team Leader; Robert Sun and Oretha Bridgewater.

"We are proud to enhance mathematics education for students through the First In Math program," said Theresa Jackson, PG County's Talented and Gifted Supervisor. "This initiative offers a fun and innovative learning experience for children in math and technology to prepare them with critical skills for the future. Today's event at Glenarden Woods celebrates students' enthusiasm for math and serves as an inspiration to all of us."

"I think everyone should congratulate Caleb and his classmates for their outstanding achievement in math," said Robert Sun. "The 21st century will be defined by technological, scientific and mathematical advancement, and America's prominence in this age cannot be assured without talented students. Praise must also be given to the math teachers at Glenarden Woods Elementary for providing an environment of achievement, and to Prince George's County administrators for offering this program to highlight scholastic excellence."

Photo © 2006 Suntex Int. Inc.

Ohio Kindergarten Student Scores Amazing Progress
Using First In Math¨ Online Program

CINCINNATI, OH—Max Paula is an amazing kindergartner who was searching for a challenge in math. "First In Math¨ not only provided him with that challenge, but has allowed him to blossom academically, emotionally and socially. In his mind, the online program has validated him as a person and as a child with real mathematical ability," says Barbara Morelock, Gifted and Talented Intervention Specialist at Fairview German Language School in Cincinnati.

In March, 24¨ Game inventor Robert Sun attended a First In Math¨ award ceremony to honor Fairview students, and some of the teachers began telling him about Max. "At first, I didn't believe what I was hearing," says Sun. "I had to see for myself, so I watched in amazement as five-year-old Max began multiplying and dividing with negative numbers in the Integers Gym."

"What makes it even more impressive is the fact that Max progressed through most of these new skills on his own, with minimal instruction," explains Sun. "First In Math¨ is designed to immerse students in the learning processÑthereby encouraging the acquisition of new skills."

Mrs. Turner, Max's Kindergarten teacher, agrees. "The program not only captures his attention, but also encourages him to persevere until he masters a concept. First In Math¨ has taken Max to the next levelÑeven sixth-graders seek out his help!" she says.

As of May, 2006, Max has amassed more than 3,080 stickers and has completed all eight Skill Sets¨, which include fractions, integers, decimals, exponents and algebra cards. He is currently the top scorer in his school, all grades.

Pictured, left to right: Barbara Morelock, Gifted and Talented Intervention Specialist; Betsy Singh, Coordinator of Gifted Programming; Max and Robert Sun.

Photo © 2006 Suntex Int. Inc.

Verizon Foundation Honors Goodnoe E.S. for National Achievement in First In Math¨ Program

NEWTOWN, PA—Goodnoe Elementary School Fourth-grader Christopher Mienert was honored March 20 for his accomplishments in the First In Math Online Program. Mienert has earned more than 10,000 award stickers so farÑonly 22 students out of more than 300,000 elementary and middle school students nationwide have accomplished this feat to date. Mienert's online team, Canopy 8 PA has also shown tremendous achievement and is currently ranked #4 in the state. Goodnoe's other top team, Army 2 PA, is currently ranked #6 among fourth-grade teams. Both team's members received special awards from Verizon Foundation representative Daniel Reavy, US Rep. Michael Fitzpatrick and program creator Robert Sun during an award ceremony at Goodnoe Elementary.

Pictured, left to right: Conressman Michael G. Fitzpatrick; Team Leader Charyl Kerns-Hill; FIM All Star Chris Meinert (with certificate); Principal Eileen Dwell; 24 Game inventor Robert Sun and Daniel J. Reavy of Verizon Pennsylvania.

"On behalf of Verizon, we are proud to enhance literacy education for students through the First In Math program", said Daniel J. Reavy, Director of External Affairs for Verizon Pennsylvania. "Today's event at Goodnoe celebrates students' enthusiasm for math and serves as an inspiration to all of us."

"The 21st century will be defined by technological, scientific and mathematical advancement and America's prominence in this age cannot be assured without talented students," added Congressman Michael G. Fitzpatrick. "Praise must also be given to the math teachers at Goodnoe Elementary for providing an environment for achievement and to Verizon for offering this program to highlight and honor scholastic excellence."

Charyl Kerns-Hills, Goodnoe's Math Resource and Technology teacher, was the inspiration for the school's participation in the program. She received one FIM team four years ago through a Verizon Foundation grant and has steadily built the program to include all 4th and 5th grade students. Rebecca Johnson was recognized at the ceremony as a very close competitor to Chris Meinert. Just 3 days later, she was able to close the gap and become a First In Math All Star herself with 10,002 points!

To read the full Press Release, click here.

Photo © 2006 Suntex Int. Inc.

New National Top Player in FIM Program

Philadelphia, PA—Richmond School fifth-grader Enxhi Rrapi has regained her position as the number one player in the First In Math Online Program as of March 14, 2006. In passing California rival Sang Choi for the top spot, she has also surpassed the 20,000-sticker threshold and become the second member of the FIM "20,000 Club." Our congratulations to this amazing competitor!

To read an earlier News & Notes feature about Enxhi, click here.

California Player Crosses 20,000-sticker Threshold!

Northmont Elementary's Sang Choi has become the only player in First In Math¨ history to amass more than 20,000 stickers in a single seasonÑand he has three more months to play! Currently ranked #1 in the nation for all grades, Sang is followed closely by fifth-grader Enxhi Rrapi from Richmond Elementary in central Philadelphia, who is close to breaking the 20,000-sticker barrier.

"These two amazing students have been jousting for the top spot for months," says Jody Hecker, Communications Specialist for the FIM program. "Their dedication and spirit is inspiring, not only to adults, but to their fellow players as well."

To read an earlier News & Notes feature about Sang, click here. For Enxhi's story, click here.

Philadelphia School District's Northeast Region Receives Awards for Mathematics Achievement

The School District of Philadelphia's Northeast Region principals were honored February 10 for their schools' success in the First In Math¨ Online ProgramÑand in mathematics in generalÑas measured by the 2005 Pennsylvania System of School Assessment (PSSA). The Northeast Region is the district's top area in the First In Math¨ Program. Robert Sun, creator of the 24¨ game and First In Math¨ Online Program, awarded special certificates and medals to 18 principals whose schools experienced significant increases in their PSSA math scores from 2004 to 2005. Double-digit improvements in PSSA test scores were posted by 12 of the Northeast Region's 22 elementary and middle schools.

The Northwest Region, ranked second in the district in the First In Math¨ program, also exhibited increased PSSA scores, with 22 of its 33 elementary and middle schools posting double-digit increases from 2004 to 2005. After implementing the FIM program two years ago, ALL Northwest Region elementary and middle schools were able to meet government-mandated Adequate Yearly Progress (AYP) standards in mathematics for the 2004-2005 school year.

Pictured above, left to right are: Dr. Harris Lewin, Regional Superintendent of the Northeast Region, School District of Philadelphia; Hancock Elementary Principal Rosemary Cataldi and Robert Sun.

To read more about schools involved in the First In Math¨ Online Program and increased standardized test scores, click here.

Philly District Continues Climb
Math Supplement Helps Boost Progress

REPRINTED from the January, 2006 issue of The Urban Educator (Published by the Council of the Great City Schools)

The School District of Philadelphia recently saw test-score gains for a fourth consecutive year. The nation's eighth largest school system showed measurable growth on the standardized, nationally normed TerraNova test, with overall increases in district schools scoring at or above the national average in reading, language arts and math.

The percentage of third through eighth graders scoring at or above the national average on the TerraNova increased more than 13 points in reading and language arts, and jumped 18.3 points in math, compared with 2001-2002, the district reports.

Contributing to the math gains has been an intervention supplement called First in Math, part of the 24 Challenge Math Program that offers elementary and middle school students a fast-paced mathematics game to improve their skills. The Council of the Great City Schools has been the national sponsor of 24 Challenge.

The Philadelphia First in Math online program was used in more than 2,600 third through eighth grade classrooms throughout the district during the 2003-2004 school year, when the program was implemented. Math scores went up.

The district recorded more math gains in the second year of the program. The 2004-05 mandated Pennsylvania System of School Assessment (PSSA) test results showed an 8.5 percentage point hike in overall math scores. Reading scores rose nearly 2 percentage points above 2003-04 results.

Among top-ranked First in Math schools in Pennsylvania, 23 out of 27 schools that scored double-digit increases on the 2004-05 PSSA in eighth grade were in the School District of Philadelphia, according to Bob Sun, creator of the 24 Game family of math programs.

Paul Vallas, chief executive officer of the Philadelphia school system, once reportedly said at a press conference, "When you look at the children who drop out of high school, it's not because they're failing their language arts, it's because they are failing their math and science courses. So, from the very beginning, as we move to reform our curriculum instructional models, we have moved to focus not only on language arts but also to focus on math Ð and to give math the same status and high priority of importance," he emphasized.

Philadelphia Students Use First In Math to Broaden Social Horizons

PHILADELPHIA, PAÑSelected students from Prince Hall School of the School District of Philadelphia are part of a new educational partnership involving special needs students at Widener Memorial and the First In Math Online Program. The partnership is designed to increase student interaction and promote student diversity training. Students work together, coaching each other on different levels and games on First In Math, and then have a pizza party "luncheon" with their new team members.

"We've been trying to come up with something involving other schools close to us and this was a great way for our kids to interact with their peers from other schools," stated Gloria Summers, FIM advisor at Widener. "They had to interact with a counterpart from their partner school, so they were not allowed to sit next to anyone from their own school. I love it, because they are now talking and sharing, they are developing socialization skills."

Jennifer provides some coaching "hints" for Michael as they try to earn more points on the First In Math site.

Summers' counterpart at Prince Hall is Hope Thomas. According to Thomas, the Prince Hall students were very excited to visit Widener and work with other kids on FIM. The school's top eight FIM students were chosen to participate in the partnership with Widener. "It's really good for our kids because it exposes them to other types of students," Thomas commented.

The project stemmed from an idea between Prince Hall Principal Sharon Patton-Thaxton and Widener Principal Robert Mack. The colleagues are former co-workers, as Thaxton is the former assistant principal of Widener. According to Mack, computer programs are natural conduits for students to turn to, as many have been using computers or various technologies to communicate with others. "This provides interaction for the students in a natural environment. When these kind of social skills develop in natural settings, and are not forced, they become embedded," adds Mack. "First In Math really sets the tone for what the youngsters can do in a natural environment."

Mack also stated that when individuals interact with others who are physically disabled they have many distinct opportunities to learn about them, specifically through three different types of interaction: service, proximal and reciprocal. Service interaction is where people are assisting the physically disabled; they are literally providing a service to those individuals. Proximal interaction is where someone sits next to a physically challenged individual and learns something, for example by observing their wheelchair or another physical characteristic. The final interaction is reciprocal interaction—the best way for others to learn about those in our community who are physically disabled. The Widener/Prince Hall FIM experience provides students with reciprocal interaction, where they are learning the most they can from their counterparts.

According to Mack, FIM has been extremely influential among students at Widener Memorial. The school experienced an incredible 67.6 percentage-point increase in students scoring proficient and above in the Pennsylvania School System of Assessment (PSSA) test among eighth grade students from 2004 to 2005. Half of Widener students take the Pennsylvania Alternative System of Assessment (PASA) because these children are classified as having cognitive issues from brain injuries, in addition to being physically disabled. The PASA was developed in response to the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA), passed in 1997. "We are very proud of our students, and have achieved AYP for the past two years," Mack said. "We believe First In Math had a large part in that."

Prince Hall also showed tremendous achievement in math as per the PSSA, fifth grade showed a 9.3% increase in math scores from 2004 to 2005.

The new partnership between Prince Hall and Widener will also include the use of actual 24¨ game cards to prepare students from both schools for the region-wide 24 Challenge¨ tournament in the spring. Widener students will travel to Prince Hall for their next meeting, and students will go back and forth for each scheduled project date. Principals Mack and Thaxton are very pleased with the impact the project has already shown on their students, they hope to continue the educational partnership for many years to come. (To see more photos click here)

Photo © Suntex International Inc.

Paxinosa Third-Grader Earns Extra Reward

EASTON, PAÑPaxinosa Elementary student David Ahearn was thrilled when he earned a Certificate of Excellence for his participation in the First In Math¨ Online Program, but he was in for an even bigger thrillÑa personal meeting with 24¨ Game inventor Robert Sun.

In December, David was invited to visit the corporate headquarters of Suntex international Inc., creators of the First In Math Online Program, which is also located in Easton. "I couldn't wait to go," smiled David, "It was really cool and I got to meet Mr. Sun. He even showed me some new games they are working on."

"Meeting youngsters like David is rewarding for me, too," says Sun, who often travels to award ceremonies at top FIM schools across the country. "They are bright, focused and so excited to receive a certificate or medal as a reward for their effortsÑand their enthusiasm is my reward."

Photo © Suntex International Inc.

California Team Zigzags It's Way to the Top

LA MESA, CAÑNorthmont Elementary's Team "Zigzag6ca" held a party to reward students who completed both rounds of the Show What You Know module. Several students posed with their K&S certificates during the celebration. "I must say that they were certainly excited for the rest of the day," exclaimed their teacher and Team Leader, Sheri Galbreath, who added that the 5th grade team is currently ranked number one in the nation.

Photos by S. Galbreath

Perrysville First Graders Earn State Honors

PITTSBURGH, PAÑPerrysville students on Team "Bamboo8pa" are statewide standouts this year with the First In Math Program, placing 5th among all first-grade online teams participating in Pennsylvania. Students received awards from First In Math Vice President Barbara Asteak, local FIM representative Mark Losey and Principal Elaine Obidowski, on Wednesday, December 7 during a special "First In Math" assembly.

"The students have loved First In Math from day one and they were so excited to start the new season this year," stated teacher Doris Stupka, who is one of the largest supporters of FIM at Perrysville. "We adopted it two years ago as a way to improve our students' math performance, and saw immediate improvement in our math scores on standardized tests and state assessment after our first year with the program."

Perrysville Elementary is no stranger to outstanding academic achievement. The school was named a Blue Ribbon School in 2004 by the U.S. Department of Education. The Blue Ribbon Award is part of the No Child Left Behind legislation, and honors public and private K-12 schools that are academically superior in their state, or demonstrate superior gains in academic achievement.

Stupka attributes the students' achievement along with the school's success to the FIM program. "It's the best computer program we have seen for teaching these skills because it adapts to each students' abilities," she said. "Through using this program we continue to have very high achievement in math."

FIM currently includes more than 330,000 students from over 9,300 online teams in 25 states this year.

Enxhi Rrapi and Classmates Receive Awards for National Math Achievement

PHILADELPHIA, PAÑIt was truly a festive day before Thanksgiving break for students at Richmond School in Central East Philadelphia. Fifth-grader Enxhi Rrapi received a national award as she attained first place in the U.S.A. with the First In Math¨ Online Program on Wednesday, November 23. She competed against over 300,000 elementary and middle school studentsÑoutranking sixth, seventh and eighth-graders! Rrapi earned over 12,947 award stickers since September for solving increasingly more difficult math problems. Her classmates were also recognized as national standouts, as they are currently ranked 5th nationally out of 9300 teams. Rrapi and her classmates' accomplishment made the 5 o'clock news! CBS Channel 3 News visited Richmond to capture the award event, and interview Rrapi and her teammates, along with her teacher Peggy Marie Savage and Principal, Dr. Anthony Ciampoli.

"Enxhi comes into school early every morning to work on First In Math," stated Savage, Rrapi's ESL teacher and First In Math Team Leader. "She came in one day and exclaimed she was finally #1 and her brother was #2!" The program represents sibling rivalry at its best as Rrapi has surpassed her brother, Renajd, former Richmond student and one of the #1 national First In Math players last year. Renajd is a sixth-grade student at Masterman Middle School this year, and he is again one of the top First In Math players in the nation.

"I am so excited for all of my students," added Savage, "We are only a few thousand points behind the top team in the state and we are pumping ourselves up to become #1 by the end of November!"

The School District of Philadelphia has implemented the program in all of its elementary and middle schools for the third consecutive year through a grant from the National Science Foundation and Urban Systemic Program. District math instructors credit the program with increased student achievement on the PSSA (Pennsylvania School System of Assessment), as it has demonstrated regional results of double-digit increases in math scores among Philadelphia's fifth-grade and eighth-grade students.

PA Intermediate Units and Suntex International Collaborate to Provide Statewide Consortium Price for First In Math

A joint venture in Pennsylvania between Suntex International Inc., and the Pennsylvania Intermediate Unit system, has created a statewide discount or consortium price for their online program, First In Math.

Montgomery County I.U. (MCIU) officials took the initiative in efforts to bring the discounted price of $6.75 per student to schools statewide this year. The cost of the program for schools outside of Pennsylvania begins at $8.00. MCIU queried districts in various other Intermediate Units on First In Math, and the feedback was only positive about the program. "I thought a consortium buy might give some districts the means to subscribe to the program who might not have had the opportunity under [the] standing pricing scheme," said Marilyn Melstein, MCIU Instructional Technology Specialist, and one of the key people who worked closely with Suntex.

WestEd, the nation's leading Regional Educational Laboratory, recently conducted a scientific-based study that shows FIM can motivate students and increase their achievement as measured by standardized tests.

First In Math has made a tremendous impact throughout the School District of Philadelphia. The district is implementing the program for its third consecutive year in all elementary and middle schools through a grant from the National Science Foundation and the Urban Systemic Program. They have witnessed double-digit PSSA (Pennsylvania School System of Assessment) scores increase among their PSSA-tested 5th and 8th grade students in 2004 and 2005.

As a web-based tool, the program can be played in school, at home or wherever students have access to the Internet. FIM is currently being implemented in 25 states and continues to become more popular among primary and secondary educators. But most importantlyÉkids love it.

First In Math Online Program
Receives Good Grades from WestEd

Education industry giant WestEd recently completed a scientific-based research study on the First In Math (FIM) Program in the National City School District in San Diego County. The evaluation involved 2,412 students in grades 3 through 6 and focused primarily on the impact of the FIM program on student achievement. The evaluation studied if the amount of time students spent on FIM affected their mathematics skills, and if participation in FIM had a positive effect on students' attitudes.

A key finding of the study was that FIM had a statistically significant effect on both California Standards Test (CST) and California Achievement Test (CAT/6) student achievement scores across all grade levelsÑproving that First In Math is a motivating tool to increase student achievement!

Teachers, interviewed by WestEd, overwhelmingly agreed that students enjoyed the program and made time to use the FIM website. In addition, 72% of students surveyed agreed with the statement "math lessons are fun."

To learn more, visit CASE STUDIES. To dowload a PDF file of the full, 40-page report, CLICK HERE. (436k)

First In Math¨ National Award Winners honored at event in Philadelphia!

Nationwide only 11 students earned more than 10,000 stickers individually in the 2004/2005 First In Math¨ program. These determined players were presented with plaques and medals to recognize their amazing achievement June 6 in Philadelphia.

Pictured below, left to right, front row: Alexa Curto; Gina Robinson; Vladimir Flys; Andre Fowler; Shanak Patel and Renajd Rrapi. Winners who could not attend the ceremony were: Karissa Liberatore; Stacy Candelario; Jennings Luu; Daniel Candelario and Sang Choi. Back row of photo, left to right: Robert Sun, 24 game inventor; Marcus Mitchell, representing Senator Rick Santorum and Paul Vallas, CEO of the School District of Philadelphia.

Congratulations to these amazing students!

Our Lady of the Most Blessed Sacrament
Online Team Ranks #1 in the Nation.

Students from OLMBSS in Natrona Heights, Pennsylvania, have placed first in the nation with the First In Math¨ program, competing against more than 5,000 elementary and middle school teams in 25 states.

"As a math teacher, my main goal was to rid my classroom of the 'I hate math' attitude. I wanted to get my students to at least realize that math can be fun. Mr. Sun [Robert Sun, FIM inventor] made my goals come true," stated Team Leader, teacher Colleen Armor. Her students earned more than 102,000 award stickers so far this year! To read the full press relase of this story, click here.

Superintendent of Schools Dr. Robert L. Paserba places a gold medal on the neck of Gina Robinson at a February 16, 2005 FIM awards assembly, as fellow OLMBSS student Russell Weleski and 24¨ Game inventor Robert Sun look on.

Photo © 2005 Photos by Stoebener

Baldi Middle School's Vladamir Flys Ranked 1st NationallyÑall gradesÑin FIM!

Seventh-grader Vladamir Flys has achieved celebrity status as a national math superstar with the First In Math¨ Online Program.  Flys' face glowed in the limelight as he was awarded a gold medal in front of two TV news cameras for his incredible feat of becoming the #1 student in the entire nation in First In Math¨. Flys has surpassed over 105,000 elementary and middle school students currently competing in the program in 25 states.

Vlad is pictured here, along with his principal, Frances Heinze (right) and Regional Superintendent Dr. Harris Lewin. "Vladimir is a very exciting young man. He talks about how he loves this, he just loves to learn and loves new things," stated Principal Heinze. To read the full press relase of this story, click here.

Northmont Elementary Team Gets Buffaloed!

Students from Team Unity5ca at Northmont Elementary in La Mesa, California show off some of the special FIM incentives they have received, including "Buffalo Nickel" collectors coins. "We have been doing a drawing once a week for the buffalo nickels. All students with 100 or more stickers per week go into the drawing and one name is drawn each week, " says Team Leader Sheri Galbreath. "We also make sure to tell them that this is a collector's coin...that REALLY impresses them! The kids are really excited about it, and we announce the results at our Friendship Circle on Fridays or the principal makes the announcement over the PA system."

This year Northmont Elementary continues to build on their success in the First In Math program; in 2004 the school was home to the number one team in the nation!

Photo © 2005 S. Galbreath

We Give Math Equal Status

Read excerpts from comments made by Philadelphia School District CEO Paul Vallas at a December, 2004 press conference to announce PECO's $500,000 Energy for Education grant to the School District of Philadelphia. Click here to down load PDF version.

First In Math¨ Becomes Part of School Culture at Hill Freedman

PHILADELPHIA, PAÑ Eighth-grade students at Hill Freedman Middle School continue to shine as math stars, with two teams, ranking 1st and 2nd in the nation for 8th grade teams in the First In Math¨ Online Program. These students have succeeded last year's 8th graders who ranked 3rd statewide. Read full story.

Georgetown Day School Shows Support for FIM!

To share their excitement about the First In Math® Program, several teachers from Georgetown Day School in Washington, D.C., marched in their Halloween parade as—what else—24 game cards! Back row, left to right: Holly Balshem-3rd grade; Kathrin Bachrack-3rd grade; Mary Lou Berres-Lower School Math Coordinator. Front row, left to right: Susan Loutoo-5th grade; Nicole Smith Jones-5th grade.

FIM Spurs Success in Philadelphia School District!

The School District of Philadelphia began using the First In Math® online program in more than 2,600 third- through eighth-grade classrooms throughout the district during the 2003-2004 school year. The first-year implementation of the program was a resounding success, with 2004 Pennsylvania State Standard Assessment (PSSA) results showing a significant increase in overall performance in math. (To read the full article, including school case studies and 2003-2004 proficiency statistics, click here. To download a printable document in PDF format, click here.)

Bethlehem Area School District Ranked Nationally
In the First In Math® Program

Students at Fountain Hill Elementary School in Bethlehem, Pennsylvania, are excited about multiplication, fractions and even algebra! Michelle Sames' fifth grade class is currently ranked third in the nation among other fifth-graders and Shawn Collier's third grade class is ranked first among other third-graders! In November, the school and the First In Math® Program were the subject of a feature article in the Lehigh Valley's Express-Times newspaper, written by Precious Petty. (To download a reprint of the article in PDF format, click here.) To read the full press release, click here.

At nearby Farmersville Elementary, Alexa Curto of Mr. Edward Yenolevich's fifth grade class is currently ranked number one in the nation across ALL grades! "Everything she does, she does to a T," says Edward Yenolevich, Curto's teacher. Yenolevich is very proud of Curto's accomplishment and is amazed about how many hours Curto and his other students spend mastering their math skills in the online program. To read the full press release, click here.

(To read a profile of Alexa Curto(pictured above, at laptop) that appeared in the November 29, 2004 edition of The Morning Call, click here.)

2004/2005
PRESS
RELEASES

PECO Sponsors
24 Challenge¨
Throughout the
School District of
Philadelphia

Elementary School
Earns Top Places
Nationally, State-wide
in Online
Math Program

Farmersville Elementary
Student Ranks 1st
Nationally in Online
Math Program

Richmond School
5th Grade Student,
Classroom Ranked
2nd Nationally in Online
Math Program

RELATED
STORIES

Bethlehem Area
students feel the
power of math

24 still giving
'mathletes'
mental workout

click here

Letters from
Educators

Email your school's FIM
news or photos to:
info@firstinmath.com

If submitting a photo, be sure to identify all persons in the photo in the body of your email.

We will reply via email if we would like to use your picture. Before we can publish your picture, you will need to obtain a signed Release Form from each person, it's easy:
1. Select a form:
Student Release Form
Adult Release Form
2. Forms will download to your computer's download folder (usually Desktop) as PDF files.
3. Print as many forms as you need. Fax signed forms to: 610-258-2180.