Abolish First in Math program in Sequoyah Middle
The Issue
Hello fellow students and parents,
We need to band together to get rid of the First in Math program at Sequoyah Middle School. Many of us are voicing our frustrations because this platform is causing more stress than success in our educational journey. It's essential to recognize that students learn best in environments that support their unique pace, creativity, and motivation, rather than on a system that emphasizes competition over genuine understanding.
We all know how the First in Math program functions, with its reliance on a sticker system that feels less like a measure of knowledge and more like a relentless competition for numbers. Despite what its intentions might be, this system is leading students to feel more stressed and less confident—not what any educational tool should do. Since its introduction, many have struggled to thrive in this environment, including myself since my days at Harper Elementary in 2023. Instead of fostering a love for math, it’s simply leading to burnout.
A classroom should be an inspiring space for all students, where learning is fun and stress-free—not a relay race for the highest score. This is why we are calling on the school's administration to abolish the First in Math program and replace it with a more inclusive, motivation-focused approach that can cater to each student's individual learning style and promote a positive and encouraging learning environment.
For instance, implementing project-based learning methods could be a viable alternative that allows students to apply math skills in real-world contexts, encouraging deeper understanding and enthusiasm. Let’s aim to provide teachers with more freedom to create diverse lesson plans tailored to the specific needs and interests of their students.
By signing this petition, you are standing with us to call out for a change that supports the mental well-being of students, valorizes their diverse capabilities, and promotes a more holistic approach to education. Let's work together towards a positive change that will benefit all current and future students at Sequoyah Middle School and beyond.
Please join us in advocating for a learning environment where every student can thrive without unnecessary pressure.
Sign this petition and let your voice be heard!
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The Issue
Hello fellow students and parents,
We need to band together to get rid of the First in Math program at Sequoyah Middle School. Many of us are voicing our frustrations because this platform is causing more stress than success in our educational journey. It's essential to recognize that students learn best in environments that support their unique pace, creativity, and motivation, rather than on a system that emphasizes competition over genuine understanding.
We all know how the First in Math program functions, with its reliance on a sticker system that feels less like a measure of knowledge and more like a relentless competition for numbers. Despite what its intentions might be, this system is leading students to feel more stressed and less confident—not what any educational tool should do. Since its introduction, many have struggled to thrive in this environment, including myself since my days at Harper Elementary in 2023. Instead of fostering a love for math, it’s simply leading to burnout.
A classroom should be an inspiring space for all students, where learning is fun and stress-free—not a relay race for the highest score. This is why we are calling on the school's administration to abolish the First in Math program and replace it with a more inclusive, motivation-focused approach that can cater to each student's individual learning style and promote a positive and encouraging learning environment.
For instance, implementing project-based learning methods could be a viable alternative that allows students to apply math skills in real-world contexts, encouraging deeper understanding and enthusiasm. Let’s aim to provide teachers with more freedom to create diverse lesson plans tailored to the specific needs and interests of their students.
By signing this petition, you are standing with us to call out for a change that supports the mental well-being of students, valorizes their diverse capabilities, and promotes a more holistic approach to education. Let's work together towards a positive change that will benefit all current and future students at Sequoyah Middle School and beyond.
Please join us in advocating for a learning environment where every student can thrive without unnecessary pressure.
Sign this petition and let your voice be heard!
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Petition created on August 26, 2026