Rethinking Math: Building Stronger Thinkers Through Collaboration and Depth
Middle School students are becoming confident mathematicians.
It’s not every day you see seventh and ninth graders huddled together, eagerly debating math strategies—but that’s precisely what happened one morning in March. The buzz of conversation and laughter could be heard before you even stepped into the room. Were they really talking about math? Absolutely.
Upper schoolers were helping middle schoolers solve functions using matrices, bringing together students (and even cousins) from different divisions to tackle challenging problems. This was more than a fun activity—it was a snapshot of how the LJCDS math program connects students across grade levels and emphasizes shared ways of thinking and working.
Behind the scenes, teachers from the Lower to Upper School collaborate to ensure that students experience a seamless and coherent approach to math. The goal is to build confident, capable thinkers who can tackle complex problems and apply what they’ve learned well beyond the classroom. It’s about readiness—for advanced math, for college, and for life.
Middle School Math Department Chair and Educator Jamilah Ryan explains, “The Middle School math program is part of a broader vision to align learning across divisions. It’s not just about covering content; it’s about how we want students to engage. Our curriculum encourages problem-solving, collaboration, and critical thinking, rather than rote memorization.”
Middle School Math Educator Lori Long adds, “How you frame math shifts how students see themselves as learners. We’re going for depth, not just coverage. We want them to understand where formulas come from and feel confident starting a problem, even if they don’t know exactly where it’s going.”
This shift didn’t happen overnight. It started in 2020, gained momentum in 2021, and continues to develop. Walk into a Middle School classroom now, and it’s clear how the approach to math has evolved. Students aren’t silent or stuck to their worksheets—they’re moving, writing on whiteboards, comparing strategies, and exploring multiple paths to a solution.
“The change in classroom culture has been dramatic,” says Ms. Long. “Students used to sit at group tables, but still work alone. Now, collaboration is the default. They’re engaged in discussion and eager to share their thinking.”
By building a solid foundation in Middle School, students are better prepared to accelerate through advanced topics. While they still cover algebra, geometry, and other core concepts, the curriculum emphasizes deeper understanding and flexible thinking. Students are learning how math works—not just what to do.
“Math is the tool,” says Ms. Long. “What we’re really teaching is how to think, reason, and communicate. Those are skills that go beyond the math classroom.”
In the Middle School math program, it’s not just about getting the correct answer. It’s about developing learners who are curious, confident, and equipped for whatever comes next.
