Plain Elementary Takes Top State Honors in ”First in Math“ Program
Plain Elementary School took first place honors in South Carolina and 27th place in the nation in a program called First in Math. Plain Elementary also set a state record with First in Math by solving more than 4,357,000 math problems this year. More than 4,200 schools nationwide participate in the program.
Plain Elementary Principal Debbie Mihalic said students think they are playing a game, but they are really focusing on math fluency and facts. Students say they love math and participating in the program gives them a feeling of accomplishment and pride.
Mrs. Mihalic notes that since implementing the program four years ago, the school has seen significant increases in standardized test scores in math.
First in Math is a web-based program that offers students the opportunity to practice the math skills they are learning in class in ways that engage and motivate. Students can access First in Math from anywhere as long as they have access to the Internet.