Our Team at Mathnasium of Kyle

Jennifer Speer

Jennifer has a unique perspective that allows her to understand your kids and help them.

She is a successful business owner and homeschooling mom of 3! She has the perspective of an educator as well as a busy parent and knows the challenges of both. Jennifer knows how to engage the kids and hold their interest. She keeps them progressing in math in a way they will actually enjoy!

Jennifer has always had a strong grip on Mathematics, earning her B.B.A in Finance at Southwest Texas State University and then owning and operating successful businesses alongside her husband James.

After discovering Mathnasium and seeing what it can offer kids, they made a tough decision to sell their previous business and start all over again. As scary as that sounds, they knew that parents wanted the best education options available for their children. Now she and James have expanded to multiple locations and have thousands of amazing success stories as a result of the passionate instructors, inspiring learning environment, unique teaching style, and world-class curriculum at Mathnasium!

Favorite Math Joke: There are 3 kinds of people in this world... Those who can count, and those who can't.

Fun Fact: Graduated college in 3 1/2 years with a 4.0!

I love Mathnasium because: I get to be a part of a great organization that changes kids' lives! Who wouldn't want to be a part of that?!?

Larry Martinek

Larry has spent his entire career finding a better way to teach math. From inner city public schools, to acclaimed magnet schools, to leading private and parochial schools, Larry has served as both a classroom teacher and as an educational consultant. He has designed curriculum, teaching strategies, and teaching materials to help students and teachers learn math more effectively. He has trained teachers in the art and science of boosting students' ability to “do” math, thereby increasing students' math scores and feeling of self-worth. Larry is the developer of Mathnasium’s educational program – one of the most comprehensive and innovative curricula ever produced for teaching math. While Larry is not an Instructor at our Center, he is a valuable asset we can call on to ask about specific students' scenarios for guidance and advice. This has helped to make visits more productive and enjoyable for many of our students.

Learn more about Larry and Mathnasium here!

McCrea Black

McCrea is a recent graduate from Texas State University. He graduated with a B.S. in mathematics and a minor in physics. He is the oldest of 5 brothers and has been helping them learn math for years. Other than math, his interests include chess, football, long-distance running, and Pokémon.

Favorite number: My favorite number is e. It is approximately 2.7, and it is very cool because it is transcendental and keeps popping up where you'd least expect it.

Favorite math joke: What do you call someone who reads a paper on category theory? A coauthor!

In five years, I will be: Hopefully, I will have graduated with a Ph.D. in math and will be working as a professor or mathematician.

I love Mathnasium because: I love seeing the different ways that kids solve problems and the look of excitement when someone figures out a difficult problem. Mathnasium is a great place to see that excitement happen.

Natalie Bahr

Natalie is an Algebra I teacher at a high school in Lockhart, TX, where she lives with her cats. She loves to do puzzles, read, or hike in her free time. Natalie loves to teach math because of the "light bulb" moments her students have along the way!

Favorite number: 8, It has a symmetrical shape, and you can turn it sideways and it becomes infinity!

Favorite math joke: I'll do algebra, I'll do trig, and I'll even do statistics! But graphing is where I draw the line.

In five years, I will be: Teaching higher levels of secondary math, or pursuing a role as a data analyst. (I have realized along the way that I love data as much as I love algebra!)

I love Mathnasium because: Mathnasium introduces students to fundamental skills in new ways, so that students can grow in confidence and find success!

Elise Asteria

Elise is a graduate of Texas State University with a Bachelor of Science in Physics, minoring in Applied Mathematics. She is currently working on her Master's in Astrophysics. Also she plays bass guitar in a local band!

Favorite number: ? (lambda), the cosmological constant introduced by Einstein in his field equations. Einstein called it his 'biggest blunder'. But was it?

Favorite math joke: The problem with math jokes.. Calculus puns are derivative, trigonometry jokes are too graphic, algebra jokes are too formulaic, and arithmetic jokes are just basic.

In five years, I will be: Less than five years older due to relativistic and gravitational time dilation...with respect to...?

I love Mathnasium because: Math really is a lot of fun...and is an excellent way to describe our world. Sharing knowledge, showing people that they actually CAN understand this stuff opens that amazing world up to them.

Regan Ballard

Regan has a background in math and science education, with experience tutoring students of all ages in subjects like Algebra, Geometry, Calculus, Biology, and Chemistry. She's passionate about making learning accessible, engaging, and tailored to different learning styles—especially for students who struggle with math confidence. Outside of tutoring, she enjoys reading, gardening, hiking, and exploring scientific concepts through hands-on activities. 

Favorite number: 9! I like multiples of 3, and 9 is a perfect square with 3 as the root. It's also the day of the month I was born!

Favorite math joke: Why doesn't anyone talk about the number 288? It's two gross. 

In five years, I will be: Running a thriving homestead while engaging in diverse professional pursuits. I am committed to lifelong learning and the continuous refinement of my skills across multiple disciplines, embracing the path of a modern polymath. 

I love Mathnasium because: It makes math more accessible and engaging for students. The structured approach helps build confidence, and I enjoy guiding students through those ‘aha!’ moments when concepts finally click. It’s rewarding to see students grow their skills and start seeing math as something they can understand and succeed in!

Nguyen "Bucky" Le

Nguyen is a student at the University of Texas at Austin pursuing a Bachelor of Education, major in Youth and Community Studies. He loves cooking and traveling. He has an outgoing and gentle personality.

Favorite number: 7 because it's considered lucky in many cultures, and it's also prime, which adds a bit of uniqueness to it.

Favorite math joke: Why was the math book sad? Because it had too many problems.

In five years, I will be: I will be closer to achieving my goals, wiser from the experiences I've gained, graduated with the Bachelor degree and maybe pursuing a Master degree.

I love Mathnasium because: It is incredibly rewarding to see the confidence grow in students.

Yunis Al-Saad

Yunis is a Junior attending Hays High School. He has always liked math and want to help those that struggle with it.

Favorite number: 0 - because it is the only neutral number. In math and science, 0 has some interesting properties.

Favorite math joke: Why did the obtuse angle go to the beach? Because it was over 90 degrees!

In five years, I will be: In college attending at UT in computer science. I also hope to continue teaching math to those that struggle with it.

I love Mathnasium because: It allows students to identify their gaps in mathematics and allows them to fill it in with excellent instructors.

Jackie Miller

Jackie is a mechanical engineering major from Texas State University. She enjoys being outdoors, reading and listening to music.

Favorite number: 17, because I think it’s interesting that it’s square root is 4.123.

Favorite math joke: How do we know that the fractions x/c, y/c, and z/c, are European? They’re all over seas!

In five years, I will be: Hopefully graduated with a degree in mechanical engineering. I would really like an entry level job in avionics or aerospace with Lockheed Martin or Boeing.

I love Mathnasium because: I’ve been lucky enough to see the program work and personally feel a large shift in how I view and enjoy math.

Sitlaly Rivera

Sitlaly is a freshman at Texas State University. She is going to obtain a degree in Psychology with a minor in Social Work. Math comes easy to her and loves working with kids! 

Favorite number: 11, because growing up that was my jersey number and my mom said I was #1 twice! 

Favorite math joke: The English book asked the Math book why he was so sad. You know what he said? “Because I have so many problems!” 

In five years, I will be: A Texas State graduate, looking for careers in Psychology. Hopefully being a child life specialist. 

I love Mathnasium because: I love to be able to help students understand my favorite subject. I am able to help students enjoy what I love to do all while getting to know them. 

Elementary Math Experts

Mathnasium of Kyle instructors are experts at helping with elementary math topics.  The Mathnasium Method focuses on building a strong foundation in basic math skills by ensuring that students master essential concepts like addition, subtraction, multiplication, division, and fractions. Mathnasium helps students develop the math proficiency they need to succeed in more advanced math as they progress.

Mathnasium instructors are trained to identify and address struggles in elementary math early on, helping students develop math confidence and a deep understanding of key concepts. Focusing on elementary math tutoring allows instructors to close gaps in knowledge and build a solid mathematical foundation for future success.

The Mathnasium approach doesn’t just teach students the "how" of math, but also the "why," helping them to avoid common misconceptions that can hinder their progress. This early intervention ensures that students are well-prepared for higher-level math.

By prioritizing math help at the elementary level, Mathnasium provides the essential tools to boost confidence and improve math skills, setting students up for lifelong success in math!

Click here to learn more about our unique Mathnasium Method!

• Mathnasium instructors specialize in elementary math tutoring

• We focus on building a strong foundation in basic math skills

• Mathnasium Instructors are trained to identify struggles and improve math confidence

• The Mathnasium Method helps close knowledge gaps, ensuring students are prepared for advanced math

• Mathnasium teaches both the "how" and the "why" of math to avoid misconceptions

• Early math intervention supports lifelong success in math

Middle School Math Experts

Mathnasium instructors are experts in middle school math tutoring because we know this stage is crucial in building a strong foundation for future success in high school math and beyond. Here’s why our expertise is essential:

1. Bridging Gaps in Math Learning
Middle school math acts as a bridge between elementary concepts and more advanced topics like algebra, geometry, and pre-calculus. There is a strong focus on important concepts such as solving equations, working with variables, and understanding ratios. Mathnasium instructors help identify and address gaps in math skills, ensuring students are well-prepared for high school math.

2. Developing Problem-Solving and Critical Thinking
Problem-solving and critical thinking are essential in math. Mathnasium instructors specialize in helping students develop these skills, ensuring they can approach math problems logically and confidently. This is key to excelling in advanced math and on college entrance exams.

3. Personalized Math Help for Every Student
Mathnasium offers personalized math help to match each student’s unique learning style. Whether students need extra support with visual aids, hands-on practice, or a slower pace, Mathnasium instructors tailor their approach to meet the needs of each learner.

4. Addressing Common Struggles in Middle School Math
Many students face challenges in middle school math, such as working with fractions, negative numbers, and basic algebra. Mathnasium instructors are skilled at helping students overcome these difficulties, offering step-by-step explanations to boost math confidence and understanding.

5. Building Confidence for High School Math
A key part of middle school math tutoring is fostering math confidence. Mathnasium instructors ensure that students feel capable and confident in their math abilities, which is crucial for succeeding in high school math and beyond.

6. Support for Various Math Curricula
Whether students are following a traditional middle school math curriculum, an advanced math program, or something like Common Core Math, Mathnasium instructors provide customized support, helping students succeed in their current math class and be well-prepared for the challenges ahead.

Click here to learn more about how Mathnasium students become Middle School Math Masters!

High School Math Experts

High school math courses include advanced topics that require specialized knowledge and a deep understanding of complex concepts. Our instructors are brilliant, engaging math experts that guide our students through these challenging topics. 

Here's why their expertise is essential:

1. Advanced Math Topics Require Specialized Knowledge
High school math covers subjects like algebra, geometry, trigonometry, calculus, and statistics, which require advanced problem-solving skills. Mathnasium instructors are skilled in teaching these challenging topics, breaking them down into clear, understandable steps that help students succeed in high school math.

2. Preparing for College and Standardized Tests
High school math tutoring is crucial for preparing students for college math and standardized tests like the SAT and ACT. Mathnasium instructors can provide targeted test prep, ensuring students understand the necessary math concepts to perform well on these exams.

3. Filling Gaps in Math Knowledge
Many high school students have gaps in their math knowledge from earlier grades. Mathnasium instructors are experts at identifying these gaps, whether from pre-algebra or earlier, and providing the math help needed to fill them. This ensures that students have a strong foundation for tackling high school-level math.

4. Personalized Instruction for Every Student
High school math tutoring at Mathnasium is personalized to fit each student’s learning style. Whether students need more visual aids, hands-on practice, or a slower pace, Mathnasium instructors tailor their teaching methods to ensure students grasp complex math concepts and succeed in their courses.

5. Building Critical Thinking and Problem-Solving Skills
Problem-solving and critical thinking are key in high school math. Mathnasium focuses on developing these skills, helping students approach complex math problems logically. This not only improves their performance in high school math and on college entrance exams, but also strengthens their overall math problem-solving abilities.

6. Support for Various High School Math Curricula
Whether students are following a Common Core, IB, AP, or another high school math curriculum, Mathnasium instructors provide tailored support that aligns with these programs. They also help students prepare for AP exams and math sections of the SAT/ACT, ensuring they’re prepared for any challenge.

7. Boosting Math Confidence for Success
Math confidence is essential for success in high school math and beyond. Mathnasium not only improves math proficiency but also focuses on boosting students' confidence, empowering them to approach advanced math topics with a positive mindset and excel in their coursework.

Click here to learn more about how we help our high school math students.

Mathnasium instructors are high school math experts because they have the knowledge and experience to help students master advanced math topics like algebra, calculus, and geometry. Their personalized approach ensures students get the math help they need to succeed in high school and test prep for college, setting them up for lifelong success in math!

Experts in Math, ANY Math!

Mathnasium helps students no matter which math curriculum or standards they are using in class.  Our approach provides students with a full understanding of the core concepts of the topic, not just the memorized algorithm.  This sets them up for success in any math class or on any college entrance exam.  Plus, we set aside time to help them with their homework at the end of each session, so we can demonstrate exactly how the skills we practice at Mathnasium apply to their schoolwork.

Click here to learn more about the results of our program!

Our instructors are experienced with a wide range of math curricula and standards, including:

• Eureka Math

• Singapore Math

• IXL

• Saxon Math

• Teaching Textbooks

• Math-U-See

• Common Core

• State Standards

• And more!