Program adds up to improved math scores

Charleston Middle School students completed a program aimed at helping students in math. Pictured are recipients of the $20 incentive from left, front row: Richard Murphy, Dorrinda Kent, Leah Welch, Ela Hale, Kaelynn Taber, Jeremiah Smith, Marquelle Williams; second row, Baylun Tucker, Seth Peters, Jake Stewart, Zach Bradley, Hunter Parker, Sara Campbell, Ryleigh Dowdy; and back row, Lester Gillespie of Susanna Wesley Center, Chris Stanfield (CMS Principal), Dustyn Odle, Tashiana Thomas, Hannah Miller, Gabe Hurley, Zakiya Wilson, Fontayvia Murray, La'Myia Williams, Tameyah Williams and Anne Willis (CMS sixth grade math teacher). Submitted Photo

CHARLESTON -- Charleston Middle School sixth graders recently completed a program aimed at helping them in mathematics.

CMS partnered with Lester Gillespie of Susanna Wesley Family Learning Center to give students an incentive to improve in math. Students were challenged to learn a set of math skills that are commonly missed at this level.

Gillespie worked with 6th Grade math teacher Anne Willis, who reviewed these skills with the participating students and administered the test. Lisa Harris, mathematics instructional coach, helped to facilitate the program.

After weeks of instruction, students who passed the test received a $20 cash incentive. The program was funded by the Neighborhood Assistance Program through Missouri Department of Economic Development and implemented by Susanna Wesley.