Our staff is built to teach each student individually, to develop the skills they need to thrive in mathematics, and to foster a love of learning.

Amanda Barbian

Assistant Center Director

Education: 

B.S. in Math, Minor in Computer Science

1 year teaching prep program (graduate level)

Current MN 5-12 teaching license

Years of experience teaching math: 

8 years 

What do you like most about learning? 

I like how learning extends beyond your present life. You get to think about the whole of the world and make sense of it. With learning you can understand anything you want!

What is the biggest impact you’ve had on a student’s ability to become proficient in math?

As the assistant director I get the privilege of figuring out where students are at right now and creating a course of action to get them where they want to be. Having someone “rooting for you” in your corner can make the biggest difference in a student being able to learn and develop. Sometimes it is the interactions I have with students day-to-day, and sometimes it is being there to guide them throughout their journey.

What type of math do you enjoy teaching most?

I love teaching numerical fluency. A lot of people think that being fluent in math is something you either have or you don’t. I hear it all the time: “I was never that good at math.” However, anyone can be good at math. Watching a student start to pick up strategies and grow with them is one of my favorite things. Sometimes it takes time and sometimes you need someone to help you, but anyone can do it!

How do you make learning math fun for students?

We do a lot of things to make math fun! For some students that is getting to do math with a friend. For some students that is getting a reward for their hard work. For some students it is getting to do a new activity or challenge or game when they come into the center. We make math fun by making Mathnasium a fun place to be! The math just comes naturally after that.

Isabella

Instructor

Education: 

Current PSEO student at Anoka-Ramsey Community College

Senior at Rogers High School

Years of experience teaching math: 

<1 year

What do you like most about learning? 

I like the understanding stage because it provides a sense of happiness and confidence to further the learning.

What is the biggest impact you’ve had on a student’s ability to become proficient in math?

The biggest impact I've had is helping them work towards the understanding stage and achieving it.

What type of math do you enjoy teaching most?

Algebra! I also enjoy higher elementary and middle school math.

How do you make learning math fun for students?

Changing it and creating real life situations they might actually be in.

Iris

Instructor

Education: 

MA in Teaching

MA in History

Years of experience teaching math: 

10 years

What do you like most about learning? 

There is always something new to learn and discover!

What is the biggest impact you’ve had on a student’s ability to become proficient in math?

When the light bulb goes off and you can see that they understand a concept, such a feeling of accomplishment for them.

What type of math do you enjoy teaching the most?

Elementary level math

How do you make learning math fun for students?

Use examples from real life, connect to their own experience, and use visual and auditory aides

Lief

Instructor

Education: 

B.A. Mathematics from the University of Minnesota: Twin Cities

Years of experience teaching math: 

7 years

What do you like most about learning? 

The thing I like most about learning is being able to explore new ideas and concepts. Once I learn more stuff, I can apply that new knowledge to learn even more things! It is a positive feedback loop that keeps on giving. 

What is the biggest impact you’ve had on a student’s ability to become proficient in math?

The biggest impact I had on a student’s ability to become proficient in math was teaching an adult learner math from the 3rd grade level all the way through 11th grade math. With her new proficiency and confidence in math, she was finally able to pass the ASVAB and continue her family tradition of joining the air force! 

What type of math do you enjoy teaching the most?

I thoroughly enjoy teaching discrete mathematics. We all start our math careers learning how to count, so what could be more fun than dialing that concept up to 11! 

How do you make learning math fun for students?

I make learning math fun by tying it to real world examples or making up my own goofy examples. This way students can see how powerful and interesting math can be.

Our Mathnasium Mission

Teach children math so they understand it, master it, and love it. Math can change their lives, and they can change the world.

Quote Quote
What I love about Mathnasium is the ability to teach problem-solving skills and make math make sense, while also making a student smile.
Amber W., Mathnasium Instructor

Schedule Your Math Skills Assessment Today

Student using math cubes to solve fractions
Student working with a math tutor at a local math learning center

Want to join the Mathnasium team?

Are you interested in changing lives through math? We're looking for outstanding individuals with a high level of commitment who are passionate about teaching math. Find out if there's a Mathnasium position that's just right for you!

Explore Employment Opportunities Default Arrow
Loading