Rio Opens New Math Emporium to Help Students

Rio Salado College celebrated the opening of its new Math Emporium in Central Phoenix during a ribbon-cutting ceremony hosted Friday, Aug. 24. 

The Math Emporium is a first-of-its-kind center designed to help Maricopa Community Colleges students succeed in mathematics.

     

“Today we celebrate the opening of a center that will help students succeed in math," said Rio Salado College President Kate Smith. “This informal center will provide resources for students to brush up on their math skills, prepare for college-level coursework or find support for upper level math classes. At the emporium, students can meet with tutors, peers, or work on their own; to access resources which will help them increase in confidence and success."

The cozy, café-style center was designed to create a non-traditional, less intimidating environment that makes it more conducive for learning.

Rio Salado Faculty Chair of Mathematics John Jensen (left) works with student Shawnda Howerton (right) and her sign language interpreter Nancy Oster (behind Jensen)

       

Students will receive personalized attention from a math concierge who acts as a tutor, small group presenter and coach in an effort to provide a dynamic, innovative learning experience.

Student Leila Roberts

Students will have access to computers and cutting-edge learning software including a subscription for EdReady instructional software, which helps students progress at their own pace and achieve defined learning outcomes. Each of the Maricopa Community Colleges will have the ability to track their students' progress.

This Math Emporium is aligned with the transformation work being done throughout the Maricopa Community Colleges to help students prepare for college-level work and succeed in their courses.

The Math Emporium is located at Rio Salado's Northern location, 1715 W. Northern Ave., Phoenix, AZ 85021. For additional details visit www.riosalado.edu/math-emporium.

Pictured above, Maricopa Community Colleges District (MCCCD) Chancellor Maria Harper-Marinick center, with Rio Salado College President Kate Smith to her right, joined by guests at ribbon cutting.

Check out event photos on our Facebook page.