The Mathematics Department at Saint Ann’s is committed to inspiring a sense of joy and confidence in mathematics; we view mathematics as an art form. In our investigation of the power and beauty of mathematical systems, we emphasize thoughtful and precise reasoning. We accomplish our objectives within the framework of the department’s guiding belief that each child should be educated from the standpoint of where he/she is, not where age or grade says he/ she should be. In middle and high school, students are placed in classes according to interest, ability and the assessments of their teachers, past and present. Groupings are formed at the end of each school year and are continually reevaluated in the subsequent year. The Mathematics Department organizes its curriculum and course structure to meet the needs of all Saint Ann’s students.

   Our teachers bring to their work a passion for mathematics, a depth of understanding, and a creative and flexible approach that is sensitive to the abilities of our students. The freedom to shape the curriculum enables teachers to share their joy for learning in a natural manner. Our teachers and students develop a comfortable dialogue; pacing and subject matter are adjusted to serve the interests of the class. There is also ongoing dialogue among math teachers in which ideas and materials are openly exchanged.

   In the Lower School, students are introduced to counting, place value arithmetic, shapes, and patterns. A wide variety of puzzles and games are played in order to expose students to deductive principles in a setting that is fun and exciting. The teaching is shared by master teachers and members of the Mathematics Department.

   In the Middle School, we explore topics in algebra, geometry, logic, number theory, and set theory. Students develop ideas, discover algorithms, and sharpen their computational skills while investigating interesting problems. A problem solving course is offered as an elective. We participate in Mathcounts and some students have advanced to the national level of this competition.

   High school students are required to take two years of algebra, and one year of geometry. After completion of these courses, they can choose from a variety of electives such as: Trigonometry and Analysis, Calculus I, Calculus II, Discrete Mathematics, Formal Logic, Applicable Math, Non-Euclidean Geometry, Advanced Problem Solving, Probability and Games of Chance, Fractals and Chaos, Number Theory, Math and Humanism, Statistics, Pure Mathematics, Micro and Macro Economics, and Independent Study. Students also have the opportunity to participate in the New York Math League and the American Mathematics Competition. The breadth of our curriculum reflects the wide range of experience of our faculty in mathematics, science, the humanities, and the arts.