ACES is an out-of-school time program that focuses on using sports as a hook to get kids excited about math and social-emotional learning. We provide intentional, project-based curriculum for low-income students in grades 4-8 in Minneapolis and Saint Paul.
Our Methods
Extensive research shows that middle school is a critical point in determining a student’s future. This is why ACES focuses on 4th through 8th grade students. Students who are proficient in math by 8th grade are more likely to master high school math, graduate high school, and succeed in college and career. Research also shows that if students are confident in math, they are confident in life!
We believe sports is a universal way to empower confident kids, which is why we’re proud to be the first organization of its kind in the Twin Cities to have the direct support of every major Minnesota professional sports team. These teams, along with the University of Minnesota Athletic Department, provide resources in terms of athlete appearances and mentoring, stadium tours and visits, and experiential learning opportunities.
“We are seeing [the achievement] gap narrowing, we are seeing growth in proficiency, we are seeing an inch in the positive direction … having a program like ACES allows us to spend quality time with young adults who really care about math and care about our kids.”
— BRYAN BASS, PRINCIPAL LINWOOD MONROE ARTS PLUS
Based on Minnesota state education standards, ACES intentionally focuses on the intersection of crucial social-emotional skills with math, using sports content to engage students in learning. By showing students that what they’re learning in the classroom applies to something they’re passionate about – sports - it translates to improved grades and a new passion for their own education!
Our Mission and Vision
The mission of ACES is to help reduce the academic achievement gap in the Twin Cities and improve the likelihood of success for underserved students.
Our vision is that ACES students succeed in college and career, and become engaged citizens in safe and equitable communities.
86%
of students increased their confidence in math
75%
of students display significant growth in Social-Emotional skills
6000+
students served
Support ACES
ACES’ model is one that works. Help us work to close the achievement gap in the Twin Cities with a donation in any amount. Students are eager and ready to learn math and social-emotional skills through sports; we need your support to engage these learners.