The mathematics program at Windrush is designed to help children value mathematics and develop confidence in their problem-solving abilities as they learn to communicate and reason mathematically. Students learn to appreciate the wonder of mathematics so that they can approach the field with curiosity, enjoyment, and confidence. Informed by the National Council of Teachers of Mathematics Curriculum Standards, the curriculum includes number operations, algebra, geometry, measurement, data analysis, and probability. The University of Chicago’s Everyday Math forms the backbone of the curriculum, with the best aspects of other nationally recognized resources such as TERC, Making Math Real, and Family Math woven throughout to create a truly comprehensive, balanced, and engaging program.

Our elementary mathematics program begins with children’s informal knowledge about number, quantity, patterns, shapes, and logic. Formal understanding and use of standard mathematical concepts and practices grow by steadily applying and revising prior knowledge. The Windrush curriculum offers a hands-on approach to learning that uses a wide variety of manipulative materials. It also includes practical routines that help build basic arithmetic skills essential to effective problem solving.

Teaching methods and topics of instruction are varied intentionally so children will be accustomed to the wide variety of mathematical experiences awaiting them later in life. Most importantly, mathematical concepts are taught in the context of real-life situations. The children directly experience the essential role that mathematics plays in many of their day-to-day activities. Students use mathematics to help make sense of real situations. Their problem-solving opportunities often include activities that require critical thought and group communication. An important element of Windrush's mathematics program is the use of cooperative problem-solving. Working in groups, children take responsibility for their own learning; they question, they discuss, they create, and they decide how to proceed. This approach empowers children to express themselves, build teamwork skills, and share challenges and successes.