CIS math club about more than just numbers

Cayman International School (CIS) has introduced a new Math Club aimed at challenging and inspiring students from second through 12th grade. The club’s mission extends beyond mastering math; it focusses on building resilience, confidence and open-mindedness through collaborative problem-solving and exposure to global mathematical challenges.

The Math Club was founded by Dr. Krista Finch, CIS’s community activities services & CAS coordinator who has been with the school for 17 years. 

"Math is about so much more than numbers," Dr. Finch says. "It’s about developing critical life skills — resilience, confidence and the ability to think critically. This programme allows students to stretch their thinking, learn from one another and celebrate their unique strengths.”

While CIS has previously offered individualised math tests and small-group sessions for advanced students, this is the first year the school has formally launched the Math Club. The club provides an inclusive space where students of different grade levels can collaborate, compete and explore mathematical concepts. 

Dr. Finch’s inspiration for the programme stems from her research on the needs of advanced learners. 

“Every child has different strengths and some are ready for more challenging material,” she says. “The goal is to provide these students with the opportunities to grow and excel, all within a supportive environment.”

CIS, with its student body representing more than 40 nationalities, offers a unique context for the programme. 

"Math is a universal language," Dr. Finch said, "But the way it’s applied can vary by culture. Through the Math Club, students solve problems that reflect diverse cultural perspectives, gaining both math skills and cultural understanding."

The club’s format is flexible, with students opting into weekly lunch or after-school sessions. During these sessions, students solve math problems based on real-world scenarios. Teachers and high school volunteers guide the discussions, encouraging students to challenge each other and present their thinking.

In addition to fostering math skills, the club offers other benefits. High school students have the chance to build leadership skills by mentoring younger participants, a valuable asset for college applications. The programme also introduces students to prestigious math competitions, including the American Math Competitions and University of Waterloo’s contests.

Eleventh-grade student Mateus Rocco, who volunteers with the club, enjoys mentoring younger students. 

"It’s great to explain my thinking to them and see their excitement as they grasp new concepts," he says. "It’s so rewarding to see them develop a love for math."

Senior Kamila Woolaver also volunteers and is excited to see the club’s expansion. 

"Last year we focused on middle school students, but this year the club has grown and it's inspiring to see so many younger students passionate about math," she said. 

The Math Club is already making an impact, with more than 10% of the student body participating. The programme has a dedicated team of five teachers and three parent volunteers, and plans to involve more high school students as the year progresses. 

Dr. Finch credits the school's strong support system for the programme’s success. 

"This wouldn't be possible without the incredible enthusiasm from the CIS staff, parents and administration," she says.

Parent volunteer Aviva Fabricant agrees, saying, “The Math Club offers kids an exciting way to explore math beyond the classroom, challenging each other and seeing math in new ways. It's amazing to see them work together."

Looking ahead, Dr. Finch plans to expand the programme further, introducing more international math tests and continuing to foster a love for math across all divisions. 

This article was first published in the December 2024/January 2025 print edition of Camana Bay Times.