San Antonio Students Band Together to Tackle Math Challenges
San Antonio is buzzing with excitement, especially in the classrooms where bright young minds are taking matters into their own hands. Among these dynamic students is Ethan Guan, an inspiring 8th-grader who isn’t just about *cracking equations* but is also passionate about making math enjoyable for his peers. As the president of San Antonio Math Include (SAMI), Ethan’s mission revolves around ensuring every student, no matter their background, can find joy and success in math.
What is SAMI?
Founded by students for students, SAMI is a nonprofit organization that provides free math tutoring to students from elementary through middle school. The program offers support through in-person sessions, virtual help on Zoom, and even engaging videos on YouTube. “A lot of people make really small mistakes, but that small mistake can really impact your entire work and steps that you solve to get your solution,” Ethan explained, emphasizing the importance of understanding over mere memorization.
A Personal Touch
Coming from an immigrant household, Ethan knows firsthand the struggles many kids face, particularly when it comes to *reading comprehension*. He points out that for some students, math can become a real hurdle if they can’t fully understand the problems due to their reading skills. This sentiment is echoed by Dr. Deborah Valdez, a former teacher now serving as the Director of San Antonio Youth Literacy. She highlights the critical connection between reading and academic success. “If kids don’t know how to read, then by the end of second grade, the beginning of third grade, they’re not going to progress in the curriculum,” she stated, urging us all to consider what life would be like if we couldn’t read at all.
The Importance of Literacy
The San Antonio Youth Literacy nonprofit plays a significant role in changing this narrative. They help over 500 children build their reading comprehension abilities and self-assurance in school. Volunteers, called “reading buddies,” dedicate a year to visiting students once a week to read with them. This initiative creates a supportive environment that nurtures a love for reading, laying the groundwork for future educational achievements.
Fostering a Community of Learners
Both SAMI and San Antonio Youth Literacy demonstrate the incredible power of community in education. They remind us that learning isn’t just confined to the classroom; it’s about supporting one another and lifting each other to greater heights. With programs to assist young learners in math and literacy, these organizations symbolize hope and collaboration in San Antonio.
So, whether it’s tutoring sessions led by motivated peers or the friendly visits from laughter-filled reading buddies, San Antonio is embracing a culture of shared learning. Young students are becoming both teachers and learners, ensuring that nobody feels *left behind*, no matter their challenges.
Join the Movement
If you want to be part of this exciting journey, consider volunteering at a local tutoring program or even joining forces with organizations like SAMI to help make a difference. After all, by championing education, we’re opening doors for our future leaders.
Ethan’s spirit of giving back and his dedication to ensuring that all students have the opportunity to excel in math is contagious. So, next time you see a young student grappling with numbers or reading a book, remember that there’s a whole community behind them, ready to offer support, love, and encouragement.
