In the bustling small town of Mt. Juliet, Tennessee, a beacon of educational progress shines through Mathnasium, a specialized learning center dedicated to fostering students’ mathematical skills. Managed by Karen Gibson, Mathnasium of Mt. Juliet is part of a franchise owned by brothers Daniel and Reed Fendley, who also own centers in Kentucky and Clarksville. Their motivation stems from a deep familial connection to education, as their mother was an educator, influencing their commitment to helping students succeed in math.
From Teaching Piano to Managing Numbers
Karen Gibson’s journey with Mathnasium began uniquely. With a background in teaching piano for over two decades and a brief stint contemplating a career in math education, Karen found her calling at Mathnasium during a time when her teaching hours were reduced due to COVID-19. “I’ve always been someone who teaches; it really doesn’t matter what the subject is,” Karen explained. When Mathnasium of Mt. Juliet opened its doors in December 2021, she was the first instructor on board, quickly moving up to the position of center director.
More Than Just Homework Help
Mathnasium of Mt. Juliet stands out by not just assisting with homework but by creating individualized learning plans that address foundational gaps in students’ mathematical knowledge. “Math is one of those subjects where if you miss early concepts, you’re likely to struggle later on,” Karen shared. Starting with a free assessment, the center identifies each student’s weak points and tailors a curriculum that builds from those basics, ensuring a solid understanding of mathematical principles.
A Fun and Engaging Learning Environment
What makes Mathnasium of Mt. Juliet truly unique is its emphasis on making learning fun. The center is adorned with a ‘Brag Board’ where students can post achievements and artwork, celebrating their successes and boosting their confidence. A reward system further engages the students; they earn stars and get chances to spin a prize wheel, making their learning experience exciting and rewarding. “We want it to be a fun place,” Karen emphasized, describing how this positive environment transforms students’ attitudes towards math.
Overcoming Challenges and Celebrating Growth
One of the main challenges Karen faces as a center director is finding instructors who are not only skilled in math but are passionate about teaching it. Despite this, the center has seen remarkable growth, expanding from their very first student to now serving around 80-85 students within two years. This growth is a testament to the effectiveness of their teaching methods and the community’s growing recognition of their value.
Community Engagement and Future Aspirations
Mathnasium of Mt. Juliet actively participates in local community events, such as STEM nights at schools and market nights at Charlie Daniels Park, helping raise awareness about their services. Looking ahead, Karen is optimistic about continuing to grow and serve even more students in the Mt. Juliet area. “There are still lots of families who don’t even know we’re here,” she remarked, hopeful about reaching more students who could benefit from their programs.
Advice for Aspiring Educators
For those looking to enter the teaching field, Karen advises, “Spend as much time as you can working with kids and work on skills that will help you with your patience.” She emphasizes the importance of resilience and understanding in educational roles, qualities that she embodies in her daily interactions with students at Mathnasium.
Conclusion
Mathnasium of Mt. Juliet is not just a tutoring center; it is a place where students learn to love and excel in math through personalized instruction and engaging activities. Under Karen Gibson’s leadership, the center is a vital resource for the Mt. Juliet community, helping shape brighter futures one equation at a time.
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