Monfort Elementary students excel at math

Monfort Elementary third-grader Logan Witt did the normal things this summer: vacation with his family, play with his friends, and complete 22,800 units of math instruction.

22,800 units in math?

Logan and his friends at Monfort Elementary are having fun and improving their math skills through an on-line program called IXL.

The program was introduced by Monfort teachers as a way to make sure students with different learning needs are experiencing success in math using a gaming format they enjoy.

"This web-based mathematics program engages students of all ages and automatically adapts to each student’s individual skill level," said principal Karen Zimmerman. "Teachers and parents receive comprehensive reports to see what students are working on, how they are progressing and where they could use some extra help."

For example, third-grade students have more than 207 skills that are reinforced through the on-line program, including counting and patterns, money management and geometry.

It is the kind of adaptive technology that is being introduced throughout Utica Community Schools. The programs emphasize the innovative use of technology to customize lessons that challenge and provide support to students at their own learning levels.

Monfort teachers initiated IXL in January with the goal of allowing students to practice their math lessons wherever there is an internet connection.

The lessons continued throughout the summer, as students and parents were encouraged to keep math skills sharp by completing challenges in their personal accounts.

For Logan, the IXL was a fun summer activity in a subject he enjoys.

"I'm really good at measurements," he said. "I really like to help my dad make snicker-doodles."

Monfort plans to hold a celebration for students completing the summer challenge.