The ACES Approach
Since our founding in 1994, ACES has supported math and social-emotional learning for more than 9,000 Minnesota middle schoolers. Our unique approach strengthens academic outcomes and develops skills like teamwork, perseverance, and confidence for students in Grades 4-8 at 10 Minnesota sites. ACES works closely with school administrators, classroom teachers, and families, to identify and meet learning needs, and set students up for success.
In response to the COVID-19 pandemic, ACES quickly adapted our programming to a virtual model – ensuring continued support and mentorship for our students in a constantly changing learning landscape. We used digital tools to deliver one-on-one coaching and homework help, small group learning and connection, and uniquely impactful virtual field trip experiences.
Though schools have fully returned to in-person learning, setbacks from the pandemic are lingering for students across the country. Results from the National Assessment of Education Progress, also known as the “Nation’s Report Card”, reveal the staggering impact that the pandemic continues to have on education. Minnesota test scores have fallen to their lowest point in 30 years and education disparities have only gotten worse – especially in math. While the pandemic impacted all students, it did not impact all students equally.
With our specific focus on foundational math skills and presence in Minnesota’s most historically marginalized communities, ACES is uniquely positioned to meet the moment and help students rebound. In 2023-24, ACES is offering in-person programming at eight partner schools in the Twin Cities and two partner schools in Greater Minnesota.
What We Teach
Research shows that a strong, middle school math foundation is a reliable indicator of high school graduation and college readiness. ACES supports students at this critical inflection point in their education.
Based on Minnesota state education standards, ACES’s curriculum focuses on real-world applications to bring mathematics to life. Students calculate surface area and volume, test experimental probability, solve variable equations, and more – all while completing hands-on units like Stadium Architecture, Sports Around the World, and Sports Science.
ACES is also proud to support students’ social-emotional development. In regular small group sessions, students practice important life skills like problem-solving, leadership, and teamwork. In addition to personalized academic support, one-on-one mentorship from ACES Academic Coaches also cultivates goal setting, perseverance, positive decision making, and more.
What is Social-Emotional Learning?
Social-Emotional Learning (SEL) is “the process through which all young people and adults acquire and apply the knowledge, skills, and attitudes to develop healthy identities, manage emotions and achieve personal and collective goals, feel and show empathy for others, establish and maintain supportive relationships, and make responsible and caring decisions.”[1]
SEL skills like confidence and perseverance are inextricably linked to academic success – especially in mathematics. When facing a challenging problem or unfamiliar concept, approaching with confidence and persevering through uncertainty are key to ultimate understanding. Time and again, research has shown that students who develop core social and emotional competencies increase academic achievement and improve overall wellbeing.
In addition to reinforcing foundational mathematics, ACES’s curriculum focuses on seven specific SEL skills: Confidence, Goal Setting, Perseverance, Positive Vision for the Future, Problem Solving, Relationship Building, and Teamwork. Intentionally integrated and taught in tandem with Common Core State Standards for Mathematics, these SEL skills support students’ academic success and long-term success in college, career, and beyond.
[1] Collaborative for Academic, Social, and Emotional Learning
