ROCHESTER, N.Y. — A community math class returns to Rochester, giving students extra help on the basics of the subject. But unlike other classes, this one focuses on people looking to move forward in their careers or improve their quality of life.
David Ayres is a volunteer instructor with Literacy Rochester. Most of the students he works with are older adults looking to make the next step in their lives.
“Maybe they’ve reached a ceiling in their career where they’ve been told they need a GED to advance," said Ayres. "They’re right there and this is the thing that’s holding them back."
According to the Institute of Educational Sciences, about 30% of people in the United States struggle with skills like calculating numbers and percentages when those problems are explained in the English language.
It’s something Ayres recognizes and meets his students where they’re at.
Classes take place three times a week. Students come and go based on what help they need to move forward with their careers or schooling.
Ayres says there's a sense of community that's formed.
“I’ve seen people come in and get to know each other," said Ayres. "They motivate each other, because it can get tough."
It’s seeing that motivation from his students that pushed Ayres in his teaching.
“When I see these people, I’m reminded that they’re about to go do something that directly benefits society, and that’s the goal of this program," said Ayres.
Classes take place every Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday morning from 10 a.m.-noon. They're held at the Literacy Rochester office and are free to anyone who needs them.