lenge for even the best students, (NAPSA)—National U.S. Department of Education studies so make sure your student has the with strong math backgrounds are right tools for success. For example, research shows that students faster and earn more money. With graphing calculator at home and strong math skills are increasingly important for future success. Texas Instruments. For additional help with class work, check with show that high school students more likely to go to college, finish do better in math when they use a in class, like the TI-Nspire from today’s competitive job market, Yet, the U.S. Department of Labor reports, only 20 percent of the workforce possesses the skills required by 60 percent of all new jobs early this century. In fact, math-focused college degrees, including engineering, economics, marketing and computer science, are all among the most lucrative for entry-level salaries. The top careers of the future, according to U.S. News & World Report, such as a green consultant, investment banker or patient advocate, will require math, science and technology back- grounds that your student should begin working on in middle school. “Math skills are critical to the future success of our high school students and learning doesn’t stop in the classroom,” said Gail Burrill, math teacher and former president of the National Council of Teachers of Mathematics (NCTM). “Parents are a critical part of the equation for helping teens gain a strong foundation in math and making sure their chil- your student’s math teacher or were good at math yourself, chil- dren need encouragementto learn that hard work and persistence are important for success and understanding in math. Be sure counselor to see if your school pro- vides resources, such as a homework hotline, organized study group, tutoring program, afterschool program or even extra credit work. If not, check to see if they attend school on a regular basis. Be positive and inquisitive—ask how things are going in your state education department work hard and help them find solutions if they are struggling. importantin everydaylife. Showing students how to relate class, encourage your children to By paying attention to your teen’s education and expressing high expectations for their success, they learn that their math educa- tion is a priority. 2. Math is important for any career. People with strong math backgrounds are more likely to be employed and earn more, even if they have not gone to college. Mathis also an importantskill for people in all stages of life to make decisions about such issuesas personal finance, health or property management. Without taking a or state mathematics organization offers some support. 4, Show teens that math is math to the “real world” will help them understand whyit’s impor- tant. Figuring out the remaining cell phone minutes on their monthly plan, how to balance their first checkbook or the differ- ence between the weekly cost of driving a car and taking the bus all require math skills. If students know that math can help them make good decisions every day, they are more likely to want to learn. 5. Ensure that they take four years of high-quality Burrill, who has been honored throughout high school, teens’ career options will be seriously Excellence in Teaching Mathematics, has several tips for parents to help their teen find the right path ceed in math through their high math in high school. All students should be enrolled in challenging, high-quality math courses. If your student is entering high school in the next few years, plan to work with a counselor to create an academic program that allows your child to take a chal- 3. The right tools can make all the difference. Math can sometimes be a chal- options in the future. dren have the background they need to succeed.” with the Presidential Award for to math success: 1. Strong math skills start at home. Whether or not you enjoy or challenging math curriculum limited. Building a strong foundation in math should begin in middle school, allowing them to sucschool years and beyond. lenging math course every year to be sure he or she has the preparation that can open doors for career
