Athletes Committed to Educating Students
Website: https://aces4kids.org/
ACES is an innovative out-of-school-time program that brings math and social-emotional learning to life for Minnesota students. Our hands-on curriculum, individual mentorship, and once-in-a-lifetime field trip opportunities help students develop crucial academic and life skills – all through the exciting lens of sports. In partnership with Minnesota’s professional and collegiate sports teams, ACES is tackling the academic opportunity gap and preparing young learners to succeed in school, career, and community.
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The ACES Approach
Since our founding in 1994, ACES has supported math and social-emotional learning for more than 10,000 Minnesota middle schoolers. Our unique approach strengthens academic outcomes and develops skills like teamwork, perseverance, and confidence for students in grades 4-8. ACES works closely with school administrators, classroom teachers, and families, to identify and meet learning needs, and set students up for success.
In response to the COVID-19 pandemic, ACES quickly adapted our programming to a virtual model – ensuring continued support and mentorship for our students in a constantly changing learning landscape. We used digital tools to deliver one-on-one coaching and homework help, small group learning and connection, and uniquely impactful virtual field trip experiences.
Though schools have fully returned to in-person learning, setbacks from the pandemic are lingering for students across the country. Results from the National Assessment of Education Progress, also known as the “Nation’s Report Card”, reveal the staggering impact that the pandemic continues to have on education. Minnesota test scores have fallen to their lowest point in 30 years and education disparities have only gotten worse – especially in math. While the pandemic impacted all students, it did not impact all students equally.
With our specific focus on foundational math skills and presence in Minnesota’s most historically marginalized communities, ACES is uniquely positioned to meet the moment and help students rebound. In 2023-24, ACES is offering in-person programming at eight partner schools in the Twin Cities and two partner schools in Greater Minnesota.
What is Taught
Research shows that a strong, middle school math foundation is a reliable indicator of high school graduation and college readiness. ACES supports students at this critical inflection point in their education.
Based on Minnesota state education standards, ACES’s curriculum focuses on real-world applications to bring mathematics to life. Students calculate surface area and volume, test experimental probability, solve variable equations, and more – all while completing hands-on units like Stadium Architecture, Sports Around the World, and Sports Science.
ACES is also proud to support students’ social-emotional development. In regular small group sessions, students practice important life skills like problem-solving, leadership, and teamwork. In addition to personalized academic support, one-on-one mentorship from ACES Academic Coaches also cultivates goal setting, perseverance, positive decision making, and more.