History of the Rocky Mountain Math Circle

Teachers engage in math problems in Downtown Denver at the October RMMTC meeting.

Math Circles spread to the US in 1990s from Eastern Europe, emerging at approximately the same time on the east and west coasts. While the first wave of Math Circles in the US focused on preparing mathematically-talented high school youth for advanced mathematical competitions, most groups now focus on providing authentic mathematical experiences. 

Since 1994, approximately 300 Math Circle of all types (including Math Circles aimed at teachers) have been active for one or more years. Steady growth is also a characteristic for Math Circle programs through the years. Presently, more than 4500 participants are counted among all active programs. 

Math Students' Circles began in the Fall of 2012. During the first year, approximately 60 students participated, coming from 5 districts. An average of 25 students participated per academic year session, and there were 12 summer participants.

Participants were primarily from grades 6-8 though we allowed a few younger siblings to participate as well. The program received funding to start our circle from a Mathematical Association of America Dolciani Enrichment Grant. It continues to receive support from the Mikkelson Education foundation and Stranahan Family foundation, thereby allowing the program to be completely free to students. We had no specific prerequisites of our students, and all came from schools that qualify as high-need.

The Franktown and Mapleton MSCs have reached approximately 65 distinct students from January through August 2017.

The Franktown Elementary Math Students’ Circle serves kindergarten through 5th-grade students at Franktown Elementary in Franktown, Colorado. Students meet weekly to solve authentic inquiry-based math problems while deepening their understanding of the Standards of Mathematical Practice.

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