Over the past several years, it has been reported that the greatest deterrent to students pursuing a New York state High School Diploma has been mathematics.

Whether the introduction of the Common Core is responsible for this dilemma is a controversy that is going to continue ad nauseum. So, we need to learn to live with the good parts of the Common Core, and there are some, as well as the bad. Like it or not, Common Core is here to stay.

What are the remedies? One of the more successful mathematics programs is that of South Korea, ranked No. 2 internationally. (The U.S. is ranked 34th, sandwiched between the Slovak Republic and Lithuania). Looking at some of South Korea’s sample lessons, there is a similarity to our Common Core classroom protocol, although their fifth-grade students are working on rocket trajectories rather than “Dick and Jane” problems. The primary key to South Korea’s success is after school tutoring, driven by both parent and student involvement in a highly competitive socioeconomic environment.

Many of our local school districts offer self administered after school tutoring programs. Others, including Dunkirk, use the Chautauqua Striders (363-2203) to tutor after-school programs. So, parents, if you have a student in need of help, contact your local school district to check the programs available to you. Some of these programs are supported by “trickle down funding” from the federal government and are not available in all school districts.

There are programs available for those adult learners who wish to pursue a high school equivalency diploma, known as TASC – Test Assessing Secondary Completion – in New York state, or just want to improve their math skills. On a local basis, BOCES has just announced a mathematics program, “Wednesday Math Night,” to be held at their East Second Street location. Call 366-3631 for information.

The reality of any educational process, be it Common Core or the traditional pedagogical approach is it takes interest and enthusiasm on both the student’s and parents’ parts for success. Outside help is available.

Dennis Palmer is a Board of Cooperative Educational Services math instructor and Silver Creek resident.