A summer camp born in East San Jose 25 years ago has brought thousands of students from overwhelmed schools and poor neighborhoods up to speed in basic math and even to the heights of algebra and calculus. But on its silver anniversary, the much acclaimed Jose Valdes Math Institute finds itself struggling for survival, MercuryNews.com reports. “I never thought about getting to 25 years,” said Josie Gutierrez, an original supporter who has returned to help resurrect the math camp. “When we started we were just trying to get more kids into math as a way to get them into college.” Enrollment and funding have plunged. While newer summer programs in math and other subjects tapped into Silicon Valley’s deep pockets, the Valdes program’s steady funding stream dried up and the institute almost went under a few years ago. “We have to change our strategy from now on,” Gutierrez said, “that’s for sure.”
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