What is BEAM entry points?

Our elementary program, Entry Points, provides access to advanced mathematics, a community of mathematical peers, and mathematical identity building for students from historically excluded backgrounds.

The program provides a fractions activities-based curriculum for students, access to an online platform called Beast Academy, and pedagogical training and resources for teachers. Teachers run the program with students, and BEAM closely supports teachers. The program is free.

We are offering this in response to comments from many educators about them wanting to provide enrichment math to students but them lacking both time in the classroom and resources to do so. We believe all students deserve access to deep and challenging mathematics.

We are slowly growing the program. While we imagine eventually supporting younger grades, BEAM is focused on 5th graders with some 4th grade pilots for now.

Our elementary program is open to all students. Any student who is available and interested in participating is able to do so. We anticipate the program narrowing to a smaller group of committed students in middle and high school. Having a large program in elementary allows us to give as many students as possible a chance at being a part of that future group.

WHAT DOES THE PROGRAM PROVIDE?

A puzzle from BEAM’s fractions curriculum: what part of this fraction is shaded? How do you know?

BEAM provides…

  • Group activities: Teachers implement our fractions-focused activities curriculum on a weekly basis. Success with fractions is shown to be a predictor for success in algebra and high school math.

  • Beast Academy: Beast Academy is an enrichment math platform where elementary schoolers can do sophisticated mathematical work centered around reasoning and problem solving. Students use BA exploratively and collaboratively in classrooms.

  • Family supports: BEAM hosts parent workshops, game nights, and math challenges to support caregivers in playing an active role in their student’s math journey.

  • Teacher supports: Teachers have access to professional development,
    coaching, a national teacher community and more.

Want to learn more?

Hillcrest Elementary School students in Peekskill, NY.

Interested in exploring Beast Academy? Click here for a demo of the platform.

Interested in learning more about the program? Fill out this interest form. We are open to partners who serve a population of 80% or more Free/Reduced Price Lunch.

We are currently seeking Entry Points partner schools for the 2024-2025 school year. During the upcoming school year, BEAM will be working with 4th and 5th grade classrooms. Interested teachers must run activities and BA time weekly, participate in coaching, and attend BEAM teacher PD.

We’re excited to work with you. Thanks for your interest!