McKinley Elementary recently hosted its first-ever Math Mania Family Game Night, and the turnout exceeded all expectations. With 102 people in attendance, the evening proved that academic-focused events can be just as engaging, and just as well attended, as any other school celebration.
While many new events at McKinley typically attract around 100 participants, there was some uncertainty about attendance given the academic focus of the night. The response was energizing, but what stood out most wasn’t just the numbers, it was the connection.
Families didn’t just participate in games with their own children; they interacted, learned, and played alongside other families, creating a true sense of community throughout the building.
“A huge focus for me this year is building relationships between family units,” shared Amy Grande, McKinley’s United Way Community School Director.
Before the pandemic, academic events at McKinley often struggled to gain traction, sometimes drawing only a handful of attendees. Math Mania marked a meaningful shift, showing how far the school community has come and how eager families are to engage when learning is made fun, welcoming, and accessible.
Each student went home with a take-home math kit, and families received grade-level materials so they could continue playing the games and practicing skills together at home. Several McKinley staff members also shared how appreciative and kind families were throughout the evening.
At McKinley, moments like these remind us that the little wins are the big wins, and that learning is strongest when it brings people together.
