gram, they have to take a placement test. Then, based on the results of the test, students’ learning levels are established and they begin the program at a “comfortable starting point.” The Kumon site says that it’s O.K. for this level to be below the student’s current grade level, which allows each student to build confidence and stronger study skills. Students complete worksheets in whichever program they are enrolled that focus on the fundamentals of each subject, whether it is math or reading. As the students master concepts, they progress to the next level of exercises at their own pace or, as Kumon describes it, the “Just Right” level. As students progress through the different levels of the two programs, they are recognized for their accomplishments. This helps to keep the kids interested, she says. One way that they are recognized is through Kumon’s use of a “rewards system,” in which students earn points that they can save up and redeem for prizes. The more assignments and levels students complete, the more points they earn. Jadeja says that one of her students recently redeemed his points for a Microsoft X-Box 360 gaming system, which is in the top level of prizes. Different prize levels feature different types of prizes, which can vary from gaming systems to a guitar or telescope.
She says that she also holds an annual awards ceremony for the students at her two Kumon Centers, in which every child is recognized. This, she says, is a huge motivation for the kids. No matter how big or small, attention is shown to each student’s accomplishments. There is also an honor roll assessed after each quarter for all of the students working above their grade level “I like to honor all of the kids,” she says. “Each student has made some achievement.”
The Meaning Of ‘G By 5’
One of the milestone achievements students enrolled in the Kumon math program can earn is called the “G by 5” award, for which they earn a trophy in the shape of a golden star. Students who earn this recognition have completed level “F,” or pre-algebra, by the end of fifth grade, or before they enter middle school. One student in Jadeja’s program, 10-year-old Nikita Patel, has even exceeded the “G by 5” award, as she is about to finish the “F” level before entering the fifth grade. “The biggest reward of the system is helping students feel empowered,” she explains. “They find that they have become independent, self-learners and really enjoy not having difficulty at school. Self-esteem and self-confidence really go up with the program.”
Jadeja explains that most parents who enroll their child have heard about her two Kumon Centers through word of mouth for the results her programs have produced and the level of personal service she provides. “I am very accessible,” she explains. “I also know these kids. I know all of their names and know where they are in the program.” Before opening her first cenDaksha With Nikita Patel, who is about to ter, Jadeja was a Kumon parent. Her daughter Noorie, now a 23- begin algebra before entering the 5th grade. year-old law school student at the required and that teachers even have to University of Miami, was a Kumon stucomplete some of the same worksheets as dent throughout middle and high their students to stay fresh on their subschool. jects. Jadeja says that she personally trains “Kumon definitely helped boost her each of her staff members in the Kumon self confidence and enabled her to handle method of teaching. advanced classes in middle and high There are now 15 Kumon centers school, she says. “ It helped her earn in the Tampa Bay area, all part of the high academic honors and boosted her Kumon family that, according to the SAT scores.” company’s website, has centers in 47 Jadeja says that she saw the Kumon countries. The first location in the U.S. program available in other parts of the was opened in New York City in 1974. country, but not as many in our area, a Kumon now boasts more than 2,000 gap she decided to fill by opening the centers across North America. Land O’ Lakes center in 2002. The Wesley Chapel North Kumon To open her first center, Jadeja Center is located at 27311 Wesley underwent a “rigorous training and cerChapel Blvd. (S.R. 54) in the Towne tification” process through Kumon Uni- Centre Plaza. For more info about her versity, the company’s training program new Kumon Learning Center, call for Kumon Center instructors. Jadeja Daksha at 973-2266, or send an email says that there is ongoing certification to DakshaJadeja@IKumon.com.
For Advertising Information Call 813-910-2575 • Volume 20, Issue 13 • June 16, 2012 • www.NTNeighborhoodNews.com
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