The Good, The Bad, and The Ugly: Empowering Communities to Cultivate Mathematical Minds

This presentation explores the current state of mathematics education, highlighting the transformative potential of math circles and collaborative teaching alongside the challenges posed by systemic barriers and restrictive policies. We argue that true mathematical empowerment requires a shift beyond traditional classrooms, focusing on community engagement and parental involvement. We will discuss strategies to cultivate a culture of mathematical thinking, fostering a society of problem solvers.