5 Tips for Parents of High School Students, from an Award-Winning Math Teacher

“There is nothing that makes me prouder than to see my kids in college, to see them in a place they never imagined they could be,” says Kevin Martin.  He’s a Hazelwood East High School Teacher, recently named an Excellence in Education Award Winner by St. Louis Magazine.

Mr. Martin teaches math, but not students; he calls them scholars.  

The school year starts with him handing out t-shirts with “M³” on the front.  That stands for “Martin’s Math Masters.’  On the back is “Martin’s Scholarly Pledge,” which you’re invited back here tomorrow to read…it’s good.  Real good.

“Three years ago we were identified as one of the lowest five percent unaccredited schools, and now we are fully accredited,” says Mr. Martin.  “We’ve had double-digit gains in math scores in the last two years.”

Mr. Martin’s 5 Tips for Parents:

1. Help your child understand the importance of developing a schedule that allows time at night to study, read, and do homework.

2. Get involved.  Let the teachers know they have your support.  If you need resources, ask for them.

3. Continually tell your child that he or she can achieve what he or she wants.

4. Know what your rights are as a parent and what your child’s rights are as a student.

5. In the summer, keep your children involved in something that involves their brains.