On March 14, 2025 at Lincoln South Rotary Club, we heard from Jenna Maher of Mathnasium.
Jenna Maher told us about her journey to becoming a business owner. She realized that she had a passion for teaching as a dance teacher. She realized the impact that a teacher can have on the life of a young person - helping them gain knowledge and skills and - very important - confidence. While attending the University of Lincoln, studying Elementary Education, she participated in activities that helped build her leadership skills and - yes - her confidence.
She taught in Elementary schools for a number of years and has become active on the Board of Pyrtle which she continues today. And, now, she is the owner and director of the center for the Lincoln franchise of Mathnasium. Married to professional football player Brett, Jenna's family saw many moves in their young life taking them to many locations including New York, Dallas and Cleveland as well as a couple of cities in Canada.
They did not have plans to start a business. But, while visiting with a friend they heard about Mathnasium and it sparked a desire. Jenna saw a way to continue and expand on her teaching opportunities in a way that would really help youth in their success. It is obvious from her presentation that she has more to offer than just math skills. She is a mentor. She demonstrates how much she cares. Those that she works with can pick up on leadership skills and - yes - build their confidence.
They set out to create a space that would support learning and also be fun. Customizing the space at 2901 Pine Lake Boulevard took months - and they opened in November of 2024.
From Jenna's presentation:
"Mathnasium is a specialized math learning center that helps students of all ages master math concepts and build a strong foundation in mathematics. With a unique, personalized approach, Mathnasium offers after-school tutoring programs focused on teaching math in a way that makes sense to each student. We're building confidence in math and life."
Jenna talked about the many ways that Mathnasium has proven to be successful. She made 6 key points (some expanded later):
- - customized learning plans
- - focused on math
- - instructors and teaching styles
- - engagement and fun - they give stars that the kids can redeem for prizes; they have special game nights
- - flexible and convenient - they have evening and Sunday hours
- - results and confidence building
Assessments are conducted by trained experts. They start with an assessment to find out where the student is in their understanding math and where they may have gaps. Then a an individual learning plan is created. Once a plan is completed, then a post assessment is completed. If they student wishes to continue then a pre-assessment is conducted for the next level again, to customize the plan for that student. Most plans include 10 sessions per month.
They are math-only specialists - they focus on math. They make sense of math - find a way that everyone can understand math. A better understanding of math leads to improved overall problem-solving skills. She referred to number sense and how they use Counting, Proportional Thinking and Wholes and Parts in their tutoring. They apply all teaching methods and match the method to the best way for each student to learn.
Jenna was asked about the math methods taught at Lincoln Public Schools (LPS) and if the students are able to learn how to "show their work" using the method required by LPS. She emphasized that, when a student learns number sense, it is understanding numbers. She said that they ensure that the student is not just memorizing the answers. She said that math methods come and go - but the number sense concept used by Mathnasium will never change - numbers are numbers.
She was asked if LPS and the individual teachers are all supportive of their center and methods - and she said yes. She said that teachers want the student to succeed - that is why they became teachers. They understand that the center is not teaching math methods - but, again, number sense.
The teachers are highly qualified. All instructors must complete at least 20 hours of training on the methods. She said that she took 100 hours of training before opening their Mathnasium center. Their current tutors include individuals with focuses such as:
- - actuarial sciences
- - biological sciences
- - physics and math
- - elementary education
There is a
- - former college math professor
- - teacher with a doctorate in math
Some of the survey results at Mathnasium:
- - 93% - My child's attitude toward math improved
- - 90% - My child's grades improved
- - 94% - My child's math skills and understanding improved
- - 92% - My child's homework time is easier
Students typically see improvement, not only in grades, but their overall confidence and overall attitude toward math. Some individual student levels of - yes confidence - improved . . .
From 51.79% to 91.04% in 4 months
From 75% to 100% in 4 months
From 54% to 96% in 3 months
From 37% to 88% in 2 months
Jenna shared that they have some scholarship opportunities - she would like to be able to help every child that would like to participate.
They never assign homework. In fact they provide homework assistance which is often needed by high school students. They come in so overwhelmed with their daily classes and homework that it is hard for them to focus on the math studies. Offering homework help is an important part of the success of many students.
They have seen a continual growth in students since they opened and are currently at nearly 60 students.
Jenna Maher
Jenna brings a wealth of experience and enthusiasm to her role as the Owner and Center Director at Mathnasium. With a background as an elementary school teacher after graduating from the UNL, Jenna has dedicated her career to nurturing young minds and helping students achieve their full potential.
Living in Lincoln with her husband and three daughters, Jenna understands firsthand the importance of supportive and engaging educational environments. She is thrilled to apply her expertise to support students in their math education journey, and to partner with parents in fostering their children's academic growth. Jenna's commitment to empowering students and her dedication to making math both enjoyable and accessible make her a perfect fit for Mathnasium. Jenna looks forward to building a strong community within the center, where students and parents alike feel supported and inspired.
Outside of Mathnasium, Jenna cherishes spending time with her family. She enjoys a range of activities, from reading, cooking and baking, to cross stitching and playing cards and board games with her husband and daughters. Jenna also enjoys dancing and finds joy in the simple, meaningful moments with her family. Jenna's blend of professional and personal warmth makes her a well-rounded individual who brings both skill and heart to everything she does.
Taylor Kieser
Taylor joins Mathnasium with a diverse background in education and a deep passion for inspiring students. Formerly an LPS teacher, Taylor has taught elementary and middle school science as well as high school chemistry. Her experience spans various age groups, and she excels at fostering meaningful relationships with students, both academically and personally.
Taylor's genuine commitment to helping kids thrive and her dedication to nurturing their potential make her a valuable addition to the Mathnasium team. With a track record of outstanding educational impact, Taylor is excited to bring her expertise to Mathnasium to help students grow with confidence and excel in their math education.
Outside of Mathnasium, Taylor is a new mom to a 4-month-old baby girl and enjoys spending her free time outdoors, staying active, and watching sports. She loves playing cribbage with family and friends and has a strong passion for science and math. Taylor is always eager to learn and discover new things.