Global Math Circle 2024 Scholarship Fundraiser

Support The Global Math Circle

Help us not turn anyone away with our scholarship program

 2x donation matching offered up to $30,000! 

The mathematical experience elevates the soul. While many have studied mathematics, few have experienced its true essense – that of being lost working through a problem with a small group of peers, and eventually finding answers with nothing but their curiousity, collaboration and problem solving. That experience is fundamental to all human pursuits, and mathematics gives us the perfect space in which to exercise this ability in a distilled manner.

Our Approach — At GMC, we treat math education as an accessible mystery. We run "circles" where we combine a small group of children with an experienced guide for an ~8-week journey deep into mathematical insights. Each session is an opportunity for children to share ideas and debate, leading the next questions themselves. This student-led discussion not only helps them uncover deep mathematical concepts but also fosters leadership skills. To see this approach in action, check out video:

"The math circles have kept igniting my child's curiosity, so much that he would keep exploring on the topic at hand even after the sessions. This has been a great avenue for him to stay connected with his peers in a level he wouldn't achieve with others.", a parent shared.

Our Impact — The joy of exploration and the thrill of understanding pave the way for a lasting love of mathematics within each child. Through engaging discussions and collaborative problem-solving, children become not just learners but young mathematicians in their own right. Participants from diverse backgrounds are grouped by math background, ensuring that everyone is challenged yet feels supported, enhancing the learning experience. 

A parent expressed, "I am so grateful I found Global Math Circle. I truly believe they bring out the most curious parts of my child in a way that just isn't possible in a traditional school. He loves math, and when he meets with the circle, he is able to truly be himself, ask questions, and grow a special part of his math brain. We discussed whether he would want to continue participating, and he said this is his favorite extracurricular activity."

Program Sustainability and Growth — The GMC has reached a pivotal point where our circle operations, excluding scholarships, are fully self-sufficient. Tuition and other revenues cover all direct costs associated with our math circles. This financial stability sets the stage for significant expansion, allowing us to focus donor contributions on scholarships and strategic growth initiatives that can extend our reach and deepen our impact. Between 2023 and 2024 we grew the number of circles offered by 30% and have concrete plans to grow by this much or more again in 2024.

Our Needs — While we are set up for growth and operational self-sufficiency, scholarships remain a crucial aspect of our mission to make education accessible to all. Your donations help us provide these educational opportunities to students who would otherwise be unable to participate. In 2024, we offered $20000 worth of scholarships to students, supporting around 2000 learner hours, and expect to need more during 2025. To see the real impact of your contributions, please watch this video testimonial from one of the parents of our scholarship recipients.

A parent remarked, "Thank you for providing the group and the space to have a positive experience with math. I am seeing so much growth from the collaborative dynamics, and my child is proud of himself when he realizes he is thinking mathematically."

Our History — Founded over three decades ago by Bob and Ellen Kaplan in Boston, The Global Math Circle (originally "The Math Circle", the first if its kind in the United States) has revolutionized how children perceive and engage with mathematics. Having impacted thousands of students around the world, from Senegal to the favelas in Brazil, our founders' vision was to create an environment where children could collaboratively explore the depths of mathematical concepts fearlessly, viewing mistakes not as failures but as stepping stones. After the loss of Bob, and Ellen's health challenges, we re-oriented the organization around our on-line circles and are now on a path towards sustainable long-term growth of our on-line program.

Our founders, Bob and Ellen Kaplan

Join Our Mission — Your support will enable us to continue providing enriching educational experiences. By donating today, you become a crucial part of a community dedicated to shaping the future by empowering the next generation of thinkers and leaders.

Do you want to donate in some other way, such as from a donor-advised fund? Reach out at info@theglobalmathcircle.org.