The Supplemental Accelerated Math Program (SAMP) was founded to close the academic achievement gap and support the most vulnerable students. Research shows that Black and Hispanic students in Chicago are disproportionately affected. Only 18% of Black 8th graders and 27% of Hispanic 8th graders scored at or above proficiency in math according to the National Assessment of Educational Progress. Despite these disparities, SAMP is committed to providing every student – regardless of race, class, or background – the tools needed to reach their full academic potential.
Education is the strongest predictor of long-term opportunity. Early math and science proficiency increases high school graduation rates, college access, employment opportunities, and generational success. Without early intervention, many students fall behind in ways that compound over time. SAMP exists to prevent that outcome.
Why This Matters
Math Proficiency Crisis
Only 31% of Chicago 4th graders and 27% of 8th graders meet national math proficiency benchmarks. The majority of CPS students fall below satisfactory math performance levels.
Science Readiness Gap
Science proficiency rates decline sharply with age: 41% in 5th grade, 40% in 8th grade, and only 12% in high school meet Illinois science standards.
College Readiness Concerns
Only 26% of 11th graders meet SAT proficiency benchmarks, and just 24.2% of 8th graders pass Algebra I. These numbers signal long-term academic risk.
SAMP addresses this unmet need through early, structured math intervention. Students are placed accurately by proficiency level and guided through carefully sequenced coursework. The program combines trained tutor assistants, computer-assisted instruction, and long-term academic commitment to ensure students build strong quantitative foundations.
The curriculum aligns with Common Core standards, supports self-study opportunities, and uses interactive online assessments for unlimited practice and feedback. Materials are accessible and cost-effective for families, making high-quality math education available to more students.
Expected outcomes include stronger academic rigor, improved standardized test scores, and increased access to top-performing high schools and higher education. SAMP challenges students to think deeply, perform confidently, and grow into high-achieving learners. Our mission is to maximize every student’s academic potential through conceptual understanding and real-world application of math.