West Jefferson students and teachers showcase math-badging program at Boise summit

Teachers from West Jefferson — led by Mrs. Bell and Mrs. Dixon — described the district's math-badging initiative and recounted taking four students to a math-badging summit in Boise where the students presented to other educators.

The program breaks mathematics into "big ideas" and awards students badges that can be stacked into micro-credentials, the presenters said. One student, Rosie Eubanks, explained a zoo project that required calculating angles, area and perimeter to build exhibit plans and measure materials.

Board members praised the students and teachers for representing West Jefferson. The superintendent said the program has been in development for several years and is now extending into special education and attracting interest from other schools.

The district said the math-badging work aims to change student mindsets about math, build confidence and create credentials that may be helpful for colleges and local industries.