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When students step into Math Lab, my hope is that a world of exploration awaits them. Every student in our school (K - 4) is given opportunities to further their understanding and develop their own mathematical thinking. A significant focus is for students to make sense of their mathematical thinking as they have a variety of experiences. Students have time to approach the work from where they are in their own development, and have opportunities for dialogue with others (teachers and students). We believe that in our elementary building all children benefit from math enrichment.
In addition to the daily math instruction, math routines and math practices that take place in each classroom, the students have Math Lab with the Math Facilitator Teacher on a weekly basis.

In Kindergarten the students work in small groups (2-4 students) with the Math Facilitator in their classroom. Students work on numeracy, explore patterns, take on measuring projects, explore the representation of numbers (both concrete modeling and symbolic writing), play math games, investigate shapes, count and count and count, and more.

In First grade, math games and activities are brought to the whole group in their own classroom. The math games and other activities are coordinated with the classroom math instruction. A quality math game will reach each child where they are in their own math thinking and understanding and provide opportunities for enrichment and practice. Concrete exploration is emphasized so that solid understanding is established.

During their Second, Third and Fourth Grade years, the students might either come to the Math Lab for enrichment in small groups (typically ½ class size groups) or have Math Lab time in their classroom. Once again the exploration is within the context of their grade level curriculum. In small groups, students explore, work on applying math or on a math game. Dialogue in the small group is encouraged, which promotes intellectual stimulation for all students.
Throughout student work, problem solving is central. Students are encouraged to develop their strategies, their own thinking, their ability to communicate their thinking, and listen to others ideas. Math Lab is a welcoming environment for all students to become better math thinkers.