Written by Jitu Berhanu
Bowie Middle School offers a variety of advanced classes for each grade level, each taught by dedicated teachers. As the big algebra exam approached, students couldn’t help feeling nervous, even after a year of hard work and practice.
Luckily, Mr. Piland, our amazing algebra teacher, had a plan all along.
Weeks before the exam was even on anyone’s mind, Mr. Piland began offering weekly after-school tutoring sessions for all his algebra students. He also pulled in students who needed extra help during sixth period twice a week. He focused on the topics students usually struggled with and encouraged those who weren’t feeling confident.
Mr. Piland: “If you ain’t first, you’re last.”
(Ricky Bobby)
When exam day finally arrived, students felt ready. The techniques and strategies Mr. Piland had taught us stuck in our minds, and we walked into the test with confidence.
Once the exam was over and students were released, a wave of relief swept through the halls. Most algebra students said the exam was actually easier than the practice work they had done in class, and many are sure they reached the masters level.
Bowie’s algebra students showed clear growth this year. In the fall, 78 percent of students were projected to reach Meets or Masters. By spring, that number jumped to 94 percent, meaning 12 more students were expected to succeed at higher levels. That kind of improvement reflects the impact of Mr. Piland’s support, tutoring, and preparation strategies.
“Finding treasure is like an algebra equation. You have to find the X.”
– Bryan Bolton
None of this would have been possible without Mr. Piland. His support, clear strategies, and strong teaching made all the difference for Bowie’s algebra students.
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