Who we are: The San Francisco Math Circle is an extracurricular math enrichment organization affiliated with the Center for Science and Math Education at San Francisco State University.
At SF Math Circle, we believe that math is much more than just numbers and arithmetic, it is a way of thinking about the world; in particular, mathematical thinking is the creative and critical thinking required for effective exploration and problem solving.
We have a dual mission:
- To support students from diverse backgrounds in developing their identities as confident, capable mathematical thinkers
- To support current and future educators in developing their identities as facilitators of mathematical thinking
We believe that everyone can enjoy and excel at mathematical thinking, and we prioritize creating a welcoming, supportive environment for students who don't yet have positive attitudes towards math.
What we do: We provide afterschool classes and summer camps for 2nd-5th grade students in the San Francisco Bay Area.
In these classes and camps:
- Students develop their problem solving and critical thinking skills and confidence by exploring low-floor, high-ceiling activities based on engaging, hands-on puzzles and games
- Students typically explore these activities in small groups, where they have the opportunity to collaborate with their peers and receive personalized attention and support from facilitators
In addition, we help to develop future educators:
- Our facilitators are primarily San Francisco State students with a background in STEM, education, or both
- SF Math Circle facilitators have opportunities to develop their approach to teaching as well as their own mathematical thinking
- Many of our facilitators go on to teaching careers in math or other STEM fields, or in primary education
How you can help: We strive to make high-quality enrichment opportunities accessible to as many students as possible, regardless of their families' financial resources. Your donation will contribute to this goal as follows:
- Supporting scholarships for students whose families are not able to afford the tuition for our classes or summer camps
- $350 – a full scholarship for one semester of a Math Circle class
- $500 – a full scholarship for one week of Math Circle summer camp
- Supporting programs at schools that serve primarily low-income students
- $7,000 – one semester of a class serving 20 students
