by Riley S.

Sixth-grade math teachers at Alamo Heights Junior School strive to encourage students to push themselves out of their comfort zones and tackle new concepts, such as unit rate. While these topics can be challenging because they are unfamiliar, teachers help students approach them with confidence and perseverance.

“Our goal is to help students step out of their comfort zone when learning new things,” said Coach Wogstad, a 6th-grade math teacher and a 7th and 8th-grade coach.

To start each class, Coach Wogstad ensures his students engage with math right away. “Usually, at the beginning of class, I want my kids to start something right away—something that isn’t for a grade,” he explained. This approach is echoed by Mrs. Brady, another 6th-grade math teacher, who said all 6th-grade math teachers aim to include a math-related warm-up at the start of class to help students retain concepts better.

“And then at the end of class, either with an exit ticket or just with a partner to share,” Mrs. Brady added. These exit tickets are designed to align with the day’s lesson and help teachers identify what students understand and where they need more support. Students who need additional help are invited to attend lunch or advisory sessions for tutoring.

A common question from students is: “When will I ever use math in real life?” The teachers have a clear answer. “From the moment they wake up to the moment they go to bed,” said Mrs. Brady. Coach Wogstad added, “Every single day.” Math is used in planning schedules, preparing meals, and countless other daily activities.

With structured warm-ups to start their day and reflections at the end of class, 6th-grade math students are equipped to build their skills. As for their teachers, both have their own reasons for pursuing education. Coach Wogstad followed in his parents’ footsteps as educators, while Mrs. Brady enjoys working with middle schoolers and has a natural talent for math.