$30K in 30 Days

The Problem

Failing to successfully complete Algebra I in 8th grade can severely limit a student’s options for college. It is the gatekeeper to college-prep math courses such as Geometry, Algebra II, Pre-Calculus, and Calculus. 

Yet, only 48% of 8th graders in Santa Clara County are proficient on the Algebra I California Standards Test (CST). More than half of the Valley’s students need our help to prepare for high school and college success.

The Solution

SVEF’s Stepping Up To Algebra (SUTA) program is a summer intervention program designed to prepare students for Algebra I in 8th grade.  SUTA is taught by credentialed teachers who create a fun and interactive classroom experience by incorporating technology tools and providing mentorship from college-level teaching assistants and corporate volunteers.  To instill a college-bound culture in students and their families, SUTA holds College Nights and takes students on field trips to local universities like San Jose State, Santa Clara University, and Stanford University. 

A second chance to stay on the path to college. In addition to extended time on math, SUTA works closely with school districts to realign student trajectories.  For example, a 7th grader deemed not ready for Algebra I in 8th grade can change his course placement by participating in SUTA over the summer.  If he demonstrates reasonable progress in the program, his school district will change his course placement and put him in Algebra I when he returns to school in the fall.

Stepping Up To Algebra Plus (SUTA+) is an extension of the SUTA program during the school year.  SUTA+ provides continued support to 8th grade students currently enrolled in Algebra I through Saturday sessions.

Summer 2012 Results

• 1,000 students served across 18 Silicon Valley school districts.
• 19% increase in proficiency based on pre- and post-assessments.
• 92% of students plan to finish college.
• 53% of students plan to earn an advanced degree.

How You Can Help

Please join in our efforts to raise $30k in 30 days to put more students in our SUTA classrooms. To get involved, you can: 

• Donate, 
• Become a Fundraiser and set up your own fundraising goal, and
• Share this campaign with your social network via Facebook, Twitter, and email. 

About Silicon Valley Education Foundation (SVEF) 

SVEF is a not-for-profit resource and advocate for students, educators, and corporate and individual donors. We are dedicated to elevating scholastic achievement in the critical areas of science, technology, engineering, and math(STEM). Our objective is to make Silicon Valley the leader in the number of high school graduates academically prepared to complete post-secondary education. We work to achieve this through advocacy, direct service programs, and resources for innovation. For more information, please visit www.svef.com.