courtesy of Learn Fresh and GameChanger
Michigan schools, namely Michigan Center Jr/Sr High School, are set to level up their math skills on and off the court, thanks to a cutting-edge NBA Math Hoops Live Kit. Learn Fresh and GameChanger chose Michigan Center Jr/Sr High School as one of just 50 sites nationwide to receive this dynamic, basketball-themed STEM learning tool designed to make math more engaging through interactive physical play. Funded by GameChanger, the initiative aims to empower students by blending education with the excitement of the game.
The kits are created to help students improve their math skills by using fun, physical activities. Last fall, teachers had the chance to apply for these kits, and their applications were reviewed by the teams at Learn Fresh and GameChanger before the final decisions were made.
Learn Fresh is a nonprofit organization committed to delivering cutting-edge STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) educational experiences that empower educators and ignite a passion for learning in students. By harnessing the communities we serve, incorporating play elements, and engaging in thorough exploration, we utilize students’ enthusiasm for sports and entertainment as a powerful catalyst for STEM education.
Nick Monzi, CEO and co-founder of Learn Fresh, highlighted his excitement about getting these sites up and running across the country.
“Students across the country will have access to hands-on learning materials that will help shape the way they learn, fostering growth through learning and physical activity,” Monzi said.
Math Hoops already has a track record with young scholars in Detroit, including Pembroke Academy. Brenda Benning, a 4th-grade at-risk teacher, saw an opportunity to get her students excited about math.
In an email blast newsletter, Benning saw the NBA Math Hoops program and introduced the idea of bringing Math Hoops to her 4th and 5th-grade scholars to Principal Salwa Kinsey, and “the rest is history.”
“I first learned about the Math Hoops program some years ago. It came across our district newsletter, and there was an educator who was featured. The article made reference to Math Hoops, a math tournament that this educator was the backbone of,” Benning said.
“So I decided to submit the proposal to my principal at the end of last school year, and she jumped on board, she was very, very excited about it, and the rest is history. Over the summer, I took the training. It was a virtual webinar training, and I officially launched it in the fall.”
The programs are designed to cultivate essential life skills, including teamwork, resilience, and leadership. They strongly emphasize supporting students from low-income communities, ensuring that these innovative learning opportunities are accessible to those who stand to benefit the most. They strive to inspire the next generation of thinkers and innovators through initiatives, equipping them with the knowledge and skills necessary for success in an ever-evolving world.
“The scholars meet on Thursday for one hour after school, Benning said.
“And I’ve also been able to be creative with it and utilize some recess time for the students to get together and practice and play, as well as time during dismissal, where they can just sit down and get a practice game going while they’re waiting to be dismissed.”
GameChanger, which is part of DICK’s Sporting Goods, believes that playing sports can have a positive impact on young people’s lives, both in sports and beyond. One of their key programs is NBA Math Hoops Live, which connects sports with learning, especially in math and science.
GameChanger uses its expertise in technology to create fun and valuable experiences for students all over the country. By combining education and athletics, NBA Math Hoops Live inspires students to grow academically and personally while enjoying the game they love.
Benning highlighted that when other students hear about Math Hoops, they ask, ‘Oh, can I join Math Hoops? Can I play?’ They want to be involved in Math Hoops and say, ‘This is fun math.’
“They’re really excited. There’s an upcoming regional tournament happening next Wednesday,” Benning said.
“Right before spring break, students were excited and asked when they would find out if they would get selected to play in the tournament. They’re going to be ecstatic to find out that all of them have been selected to participate in their first regional tournament.”
NBA Math Hoops Live is a free program allowing students to actively engage with learning through fun, hands-on activities. Some selected sites will receive kits and materials for engaging, on-court games. Teachers will also get support and resources from the Learn Fresh team to help make the program more effective and enjoyable. The flexible program can be used in various settings, including school and after-school programs, so teachers can adjust it to fit their students’ needs.
Rebecca Wasserman, GameChanger VP of Strategic Initiatives and Impact, emphasized at GameChanger that they understand the lessons learned through sports extend well beyond the court.
“By partnering with Learn Fresh to support NBA Math Hoops, we’re proud to give students a hands-on way to strengthen their math skills while staying active and having fun,” Wasserman said.
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