Additional results included:
• Eighth grade students demonstrated an average 33-point increase between their pre- and post-tests in Numbers & Operations. The average increase between pre- and post-tests in Concepts & Applications was 34 points.
• Seventh grade students showed an average 14-point increase in Numbers & Operations between pre- and post-test assessments. Concepts & Applications showed an average 16-point increase.
• Sixth graders showed an average 42-point increase in Numbers & Operations. Concepts & Applications showed an average increase of 24 points.
Beyond test results
When asked about the improvements seen as a result of the Champions online tutoring programs, Deb Rosebush, grant facilitator with the Buena Vista School District, remarked that the programs have given the students and teachers a renewed interest in education and teaching.
“The students have experienced a connection between learning and fun, using new technologies and activities that have inspired them to continue learning,” said Rosebush. She added, “Teachers have observed the students’ positive response to the new online tutoring programs and have been inspired to find new ways to approach their students in the classroom.” Rosebush also noted a significant increase in the number of teachers interested in participating in the Champions programs for 2009.
Throughout the community, parents have acknowledged marked improvements in their children’s exam scores and a revived commitment to schoolwork. Students have expressed gratitude for learning math solutions they could not master during the regular school year, and for helping to make learning fun. When asked what they would tell other students about participating in the Champions online program, one Ricker Middle School student replied, “I would tell them it is easy and fun, and you get to learn new subjects and review how much you know about math.”
The Buena Vista School District attributes the success of the Champions program to the company’s dedication to students’ needs and constant revision of the program to meet those needs. “These programs have consistently met and exceeded the expectations of our district,” said Sharron Jenkins Norman, superintendent of the Buena Vista School District. “It is assuring to know that a company cares about the district and the needs of the children, and that the services are personalized to the students’ needs, while maintaining excellence in execution.”
Links:
Buena Vista School District
http://linux.bvsd.us/website/?page_id=41
Champions
http://www.discoverchampions.com
- New research challenges fears about AI in the classroom - February 5, 2026
- How the FY25 funding freeze impacts students across America - July 24, 2025
- ‘Buyer’s remorse’ dogging Common Core rollout - October 30, 2014