COMPASS Math Brings Family Learning Night to Washington Elementary

On April 9 at 4:30 p.m., the SCSC COMPASS Math Team hosted a family math event in the gymnasium at Washington Elementary School in Owatonna, bringing together students and their families for an evening of hands-on learning and fun.

The event welcomed Washington Elementary students in grades K–5 along with their families, creating an engaging environment where participants could explore math through interactive games and activities. The gym was filled with energy as students and parents worked side-by-side, demonstrating not only problem-solving skills but also enthusiasm, concentration, and determination.

The family math night was organized by the SCSC COMPASS Math team, a group dedicated to strengthening math education across Minnesota. Their work focuses on expanding equitable access to high-quality, grade-level math instruction and helping all students build confidence and success in mathematics.

Through partnerships with schools and districts, the COMPASS Math team provides culturally responsive, evidence-based instructional support tailored to local needs. Their goal is to ensure every student has the opportunity to engage deeply with math, develop a positive math identity, and prepare for future academic and career success.

Events like the one at Washington Elementary highlight the importance of family involvement in education. By creating a welcoming space for students and caregivers to learn together, the COMPASS Math team helps reinforce that math can be both accessible and enjoyable for everyone.

Support from COMPASS is available at no cost to districts looking to strengthen their math programs. In addition, educators, coaches, and school leaders interested in advancing math instruction are encouraged to connect with the Minnesota Council of Teachers of Mathematics (MCTM) by joining the MN Math Leaders group.

Schools interested in hosting a similar family math event can contact Andrea Hansen, SCSC COMPASS Mathematics Coach, to learn more about available opportunities.