Step Right Up to the BCSD Elementary Math Carnival!

Popcorn, carnival games, music — they’re not things that immediately make you think of math, but it turns out they add a new layer of fun to Math Night!

In our third year implementing the Bridges in Mathematics curriculum, Bedford Central School District has made promoting family and community engagement an objective in our 2024-25 Success Plan goal of improving math outcomes. The K-5 Districtwide Math Carnival Extravaganza took a big step forward in expanding the family education experience.

The event was developed by district math coach Michelle Grier and a committee of teachers. Filled with raffles, prizes and fun, students engaged in meaningful math games with their parents, siblings and friends during an incredibly successful night.

“When the team came together to brainstorm ideas for the event, we had three main goals,” said Grier. “We wanted to create a sense of joy and excitement around mathematics, show the progression of concepts throughout the grade levels, and allow students to showcase their learning while empowering families to feel comfortable supporting students at home.” 

The festivities began with families gathered in the Mount Kisco Elementary School cafeteria. Grier and her team explained the logistics of the evening before families ventured upstairs to classrooms organized by grade level to learn and experience the Bridges math games that are taught in the classroom. Students became the experts as they modeled and shared their learning with their families. Fox Lane National Honor Society students were also on hand to lead families through the games.

Once students completed the games in their grade-level classrooms, they earned tickets to play math-themed carnival activities in the gym. There, the fun continued with carnival-style math games, popcorn, music, and a raffle at the end of the night.

Thanks to the Accessibility Team, Jacey the therapy dog was there, and there was a quiet room to provide accommodations so that all students could enjoy the experience.

The night was a huge success and brought together students from all five elementary schools to learn, play, and engage in fun and meaningful math experiences.

“We hope to make this an annual event,” said Grier.

A huge thank you to our Math Carnival committee: Michelle Grier, Denise Connolly, Allison Muller, Jill Kurlanzik, Marie Lou Gilbert and Erica Rogan. A special shout out to our amazing Fox Lane Honor Society and Pace University volunteers who helped create a memorable night of learning and fun for our families.