s. whitfield
Great experience- my son is making huge strides in math. Took a quiz and scored 100%. First time all year tha...
See more reviews here




s. whitfield
Great experience- my son is making huge strides in math. Took a quiz and scored 100%. First time all year tha...
See more reviews here




H. Shah
Mathnasium has been an incredible resource for my child’s learning journey! It has not only helped him underst...
See more reviews here
Mathnasium of Columbia's personalized algebra tutoring programs are designed to support students at every stage of their math journey.
We help students transition from concrete to abstract thinking, mastering integers, fractions, order of operations, and introductory variables while building the algebraic reasoning needed for Algebra 1.
Our caring tutors guide students through multi-step equations, linear functions, graphing, and word problems using personalized plans that turn this pivotal course into a confident foundation for future math success.
We support students with fast-paced, complex topics—factoring polynomials, quadratics, exponentials, and logarithms—building advanced problem-solving skills needed for Precalculus and college-prep coursework.
At Mathnasium of Columbia MD, our specially trained tutors help students of all skill levels learn and master algebra, from foundational Pre-Algebra through advanced Algebra 2.
Whether your student is solving linear equations or preparing for the standardized tests, our team provides face-to-face support in a caring and fun group environment.
Each student begins with a diagnostic assessment to identify their current skill level, pinpoint knowledge gaps, and clarify their learning goals. Using these insights, we develop a personalized learning plan that puts them on the best path to algebra mastery.
Our tutors closely follow each student’s personalized learning plan and use proven, interactive teaching techniques to guide them through key algebra concepts, whether they are expressions, equations, functions, inequalities, polynomials, or systems of equations.
Our Results
94%
Math Skills
of parents report an improvement in their child’s math skills and understanding.
93%
Attitude
of parents report improved attitude toward math after attending Mathnasium.
90%
Success
of students saw an improvement in their school grades.
Our Results
The Proof Is In The Numbers
Math Skills
of parents report an improvement in their child’s math skills and understanding.
Attitude
of parents report improved attitude toward math after attending Mathnasium.
Success
of students saw an improvement in their school grades.
Algebra Tutors Near You
Mathnasium of Columbia MD empowers students to excel in any algebra class by combining targeted instruction, caring support, and personalized learning plans. Our center proudly serves local communities, including:
Specially Trained and Caring Team
Jay McDonald
Center Director
Jay graduated from Mount Saint Joseph in 2007 and brings a diverse management background, including roles as District Training Manager for Mattress Firm/Sleepy’s, mechanic and service manager for NTB and Pep Boys, and management positions with GameStop and a board game store. His passion for math and commitment to student success make Mathnasium a perfect fit.
Outside of work, Jay enjoys unique hobbies, he’s a former paranormal investigator, storm chaser, and semi-pro bowler. He also competes nationally in Pokémon video game and trading card tournaments and enjoys creating his own hot sauces.
Emily Okada
Assistant Center Director
Emily earned her associate degree in Communication Studies from Howard Community College and began her Mathnasium journey as an instructor in 2019. Her background in retail and babysitting developed strong communication and time management skills, enabling her to connect with students, parents, and staff while ensuring educational goals are met.
At Mathnasium, Emily thrives in an environment where she can apply her skills and grow professionally. She enjoys traveling and spending quality time with friends and family, valuing experiences that strengthen connections and broaden her perspective.
Ben Bramsen
Senior Regional Director
Ben began his work in education while volunteering at the Indianapolis Zoo, engaging visitors with information about marine animals like walruses. The experience sparked his passion for teaching and fostering curiosity about the world.
At Mathnasium, Ben values the opportunity to witness students’ growth and progress every day. In his free time, he enjoys playing guitar, spending time outdoors, and exploring new places, always seeking new experiences that inspire creativity and connection.
Jeff McCabe
President
Jeff earned a degree in Economics from James Madison University and later a Master’s in Education from George Mason University. He spent 10 years teaching high school and college math before moving into operations and training leadership roles for national restaurant brands.
Returning to his passion for math education, Jeff now leads with a mission to change lives through math. Outside of work, he enjoys time with his wife of 28 years, their two dogs, and visits with his three adult children.
Whether they would like to attend sessions in-center or online, students can take 3 easy steps to enroll at Mathnasium.
All students begin their Mathnasium journey with a diagnostic assessment that pinpoints what they already know and the algebraic concepts they still need to learn.
FAQ
Mathnasium of Columbia MD is located in the Columbia Palace Shopping Center, conveniently serving families in Columbia, Ellicott City, Elkridge, and surrounding Howard County communities.
We offer in-center algebra tutoring at our Columbia learning center, as well as live, face-to-face online sessions, so students can choose the format that works best for their schedule and learning style.
We proudly support students from:
Howard High School
Jeffers Hill Elementary School
Bellows Springs Elementary School
Running Brook Elementary School
Phelps Luck Elementary School
Worthington Elementary School
Thunder Hill Elementary School
Rockburn Elementary School
Ellicott Mills Middle School
Bonnie Branch Middle School
Our specially trained tutors help students master a wide range of K-12 algebra topics, including:
Variables and expressions
Linear equations and inequalities
Graphing on the coordinate plane
Systems of equations
Factoring and polynomials
Quadratic functions
Rational and exponential expressions
Word problems and real-world applications
Whether your student is in Pre-Algebra, Algebra 1, or Algebra 2, we tailor our instruction to their current level and academic goals.
Absolutely! We support middle school and early high school students working through Pre-Algebra topics such as:
Properties of numbers
Integers, fractions, and decimals
Ratios, rates, and proportions
Simple equations and graphing
Order of operations and basic expressions
Our caring tutors work with students to truly understand Pre-Algebra concepts, so they can build a solid foundation before advancing to Algebra 1.
Yes! We work with students enrolled in both Algebra 1 and Algebra 2 courses, whether they are in standard, honors, or accelerated tracks.
Each student follows a learning plan tailored to them, where topics can include:
Linear and quadratic equations
Complex numbers
Systems of equations
Polynomials, radicals, and functions
Logarithms and exponentials (Algebra 2)
We use our proprietary approach called the Mathnasium Method™, which combines personalized learning plans and proven teaching techniques to build deep understanding and lasting confidence in algebra.
Each student begins with a diagnostic assessment so we can understand their current skills and learning goals. We use those insights to create a customized learning plan, delivered through face-to-face instruction in a fun, small-group environment using a variety of techniques that make algebra approachable and clear.
Yes! Many students come to us feeling overwhelmed by algebra. Our tutors meet them where they are, identify and address knowledge gaps, and guide them through each concept at a pace that works for them.
With personalized instruction in a fun, small-group environment, we help students rebuild confidence, improve their performance in class, and transform how they think and feel about math.
Definitely! We provide enrichment opportunities for students who are ready to explore more advanced topics or challenge themselves beyond the classroom curriculum.
Whether they’re preparing for math competitions, advanced courses, or early college programs, we tailor our instruction to their goals.
Yes! We provide help with algebra homework during each session. It’s a great way for students to reinforce classroom learning, ask questions, and practice applying what they’ve learned.
Certainly! We help students prepare for:
Classroom quizzes and unit tests
End-of-course Algebra assessments
Standardized tests like the SAT® and ACT®
Local or school-specific placement exams
Our instruction focuses on building strong problem-solving skills and a deep understanding of algebra concepts, so students feel confident on any test.
Yes! Students can receive live, face-to-face algebra tutoring online, led by the same expert tutors they’d meet in our Columbia learning center.
The experience is just as interactive and personalized as in-center sessions—perfect for busy families or students who prefer to learn from home.
Not at all. Whether students attend in person or online, they receive:
A personalized learning plan
Face-to-face instruction in a fun, small-group environment
Real-time feedback and support
The Mathnasium experience is effective and tailored to each student’s needs, no matter where they attend.
At Mathnasium of Columbia MD, we specialize in teaching math, and only math. Our tutors use the Mathnasium Method™, a proven teaching approach that focuses on understanding rather than memorization.
Unlike private tutors, we offer structured, personalized learning plans, ongoing progress tracking, and instruction that supports classroom goals while preparing students for long-term success.
Yes! Our tutors are familiar with the Maryland College and Career Ready Standards (MCCRS) and frequently support students attending Howard County Public Schools and private schools in the area.
We align our instruction with what’s being taught in local classrooms and help students prepare for school assessments, Maryland Comprehensive Assessment Program (MCAP) exams, and Algebra 1 end-of-course requirements.
It’s easy! Here’s how to begin:
Schedule a free assessment
Receive a personalized learning plan tailored to your child’s needs
Enroll and begin sessions, either in-center or online
Most students begin their Mathnasium journey within just a few days!
Knowledge Hub
Jun 28, 2026
Jun 16, 2026
Jun 4, 2026
May 18, 2026
May 12, 2026
May 4, 2026
May 4, 2026
Apr 14, 2026
Mar 31, 2026
Mar 30, 2026
8827 Centre Park Drive, #F
Columbia, MD 21045
| Call: | (410) 997-6284 |
| Email: | [email protected] |
Mon
2:00PM - 7:00PM
Tue
2:00PM - 7:00PM
Wed
2:00PM - 7:00PM
Thu
2:00PM - 7:00PM
Fri
2:00PM - 6:00PM
Sat
Closed
Mon
11:00AM - 7:00PM
Tue
11:00AM - 7:00PM
Wed
11:00AM - 7:00PM
Thu
11:00AM - 7:00PM
Fri
11:00AM - 7:00PM
Sat
Closed
| Mon: | 2:00PM - 7:00PM |
| Tue: | 2:00PM - 7:00PM |
| Wed: | 2:00PM - 7:00PM |
| Thu: | 2:00PM - 7:00PM |
| Fri: | 2:00PM - 6:00PM |
| Sat: | Closed |
| Mon: | 11:00AM - 7:00PM |
| Tue: | 11:00AM - 7:00PM |
| Wed: | 11:00AM - 7:00PM |
| Thu: | 11:00AM - 7:00PM |
| Fri: | 11:00AM - 7:00PM |
| Sat: | Closed |
Have questions? Contact us.