Frequently Asked Questions
What is a Math Circle?
Math circles are enrichment programs for participants to investigate math non-competitively. For middle school-age students, this generally means studying mathematics not in the standard school curriculum. They are spaces that encourage creative thinking, asking questions, and finding different methods to solve problems.
What makes Math Circles different than other math enrichment programs?
Our approach is simple: fun, engaging math that helps every kid see that they are a math person. There is no competition, no time limits on problem-solving, and never just one right answer.
What grades do you serve?
Our programs are designed for students in grades 3-9.
When and where do math circles take place?
Our programs meet outside of regular school hours, on Sunday afternoons, at local school and university campuses. We are getting ready to launch our 2023-2024 school year program in the next couple of weeks– you can see updates and register here!
Who teaches Math Circles?
Math Circles of Houston has two branches of programming– one branch is our citywide math circle (register here!), and one branch is in schools.
In our school-year citywide program, our teachers are undergrads, Ph.D. candidates and postdocs in Mathematics and other STEM fields. In schools, our teachers are classroom teachers who run math circles with their students after school.
If you are interested in bringing math circles to your school or district, please contact Noel Perkins at noel@mathcirclesofhouston.org.
We provide lesson plans, coaching, workshop support, and pay for your time.
Just an individual with a spirit of joyful inquiry?
Start out by volunteering! Aspiring teachers and volunteers can submit their interest by completing our form found in For Teachers.