Department Philosophy

 

In keeping with the Jesuit tradition of education at Saint Ignatius College Preparatory and in accordance with our school’s statement of philosophy, the primary goal of the mathematics department is to develop “men and women for and with others” through a comprehensive and structured mathematics program.  Toward this end, the members of the department assist the students in becoming competent in the mathematics curriculum of a college preparatory program; this curriculum includes algebra, geometry, precalculus, and calculus.  We strive to prepare our students for college–level calculus and/or statistics.

We strive to ensure that each student will receive a thorough and comprehensive grounding in mathematics.  We promote the understanding and use of the technical vocabulary and symbolism of mathematics and the appreciation of the precision of mathematical language, resulting in the students’ learning to think both analytically and creatively. At the same time, students will demonstrate understanding of the significant limitations of mathematical models in many complex, real–world situations.

The members of the mathematics department serve the students of Saint Ignatius College Preparatory both in and out of the classroom, encouraging both the intellectual and personal growth of the students.  The members of the department are careful to treat each student as an individual, to be concerned with each student's endeavors in and out of the classroom, and to be available to each student outside of the classroom, not only for academic assistance, but also for any other matter.  The members of the mathematics department demonstrate support for the school’s Campus Ministry and extracurricular programs:  directing retreats, attending Friday Morning Liturgy, coaching, moderating clubs and activities, attending student performances, competitions, and events.  In short, the members of the department demonstrate cura personalis, care for the whole person.  In order for all this to be achieved, it is imperative that the members of the department teach their students in the best way possible—by example.  The members of the department themselves demonstrate solid competence in teaching their courses—they are clear, creative, aware of and responsive to the students' needs.  They employ a variety of pedagogical styles and methods to ensure that the students are taking responsibility for their achievement in mathematics and to promote students’ appreciation of the importance of mathematics in the modern world.