- Feature
Innovation in the classroom is not just a philosophy—it’s a driving force that reflects Stone Ridge’s mission to inspire intellectual curiosity, personal growth, and a lifelong love of learning. This commitment is evident in the teaching practices of Sacred Heart educators like Upper School Math Teacher Reyhaneh Khaze, whose passion for math is matched by her dedication to her students’ success.
For the past six years, Mrs. Khaze has guided students through the intricacies of Pre-calculus and AP Calculus. Like many of our Sacred Heart educators, Mrs. Khaze builds strong connections with her students and supports their success through a combination of dynamic teaching methods and various innovative tools and programs in the classroom that help make math concepts more accessible and engaging to students. Technological innovations in math education have played a transformative role in fostering student growth, confidence, and success, with one standout being DeltaMath, an interactive online platform.
“Math is the great equalizer. Everybody has the capability and potential to learn even the most complicated subjects, but it takes time, and everybody’s pace is different.”
- Reyhaneh Khaze, Upper School Math Teacher
Tailoring Learning to Student Needs
Well-versed in using the platform, Mrs. Khaze saw DeltaMath as indispensable when the pandemic shifted learning online in early 2020. DeltaMath’s core features—personalized assignments, visual problem-solving, step-by-step breakdowns, and instant feedback—align deeply with Sacred Heart Goal II, a deep respect for intellectual values. This technology allows students to engage with complex material at a pace that challenges and supports them, fostering a spirit of perseverance and discovery.
DeltaMath’s versatility is especially powerful in honoring students' diverse needs. The program enables teachers to tailor assignments to individual abilities, ensuring that students who need additional practice receive the necessary support. “It breaks down problems step-by-step,” Mrs. Khaze explains. “It’s like having a tutor at home.” This personalized approach helps reinforce foundational skills essential for success in advanced math courses.
The platform’s explanatory videos and real-time feedback allow students to learn from mistakes in a low-pressure environment. Cultivating a space where students feel empowered to learn at their own pace fosters confidence and curiosity.
Building A Community of Learners
Mrs. Khaze’s enthusiasm for the platform extends beyond her classes. Recognizing its potential, she introduced DeltaMath to the broader Math Department and advocated for its adoption. “Over the years, more teachers have come to see its value. Now, most of the department uses it regularly,” she shares.
Beyond daily homework, DeltaMath plays an integral role in assessments and reviews. “The platform generates different questions for each student, ensuring fairness and preventing copying. It also tracks their progress, helping me identify areas where students need extra support,” Mrs. Khaze adds. These data-driven insights streamline grading, so she can focus on providing meaningful, targeted feedback and personalized instruction in the classroom. By leveraging technology to foster continuous improvement, Mrs. Khaze ensures that students receive the support they need to thrive in mathematics.
A Path to Measurable Growth and Confidence
In recent years, Mrs. Khaze has seen noticeable improvements in AP exam scores, with one class achieving an impressive near-100% pass rate. Even students who previously found math challenging are now experiencing greater success on tests. With DeltaMath’s interactive platform, students engage more deeply with their learning and find math practice more enjoyable and rewarding.
Yet, for Mrs. Khaze, the most meaningful moments transcend test scores. It’s the joy and love of learning—that “aha” moment—when everything clicks. “Math is the great equalizer,” she says. “Everybody has the capability and potential to learn even the most complicated subjects, but it takes time, and everybody’s pace is different.”
A Holistic Approach to Math Education
Mrs. Khaze’s experience reflects a broader trend at Stone Ridge—integrating engaging and interactive teaching with technology to create dynamic, inclusive, and supportive learning environments. DeltaMath stands out for its adaptability and comprehensive features that cater to the diverse needs of students. It is also part of a broader toolkit designed to meet students at every stage of their math journey. In addition to DeltaMath, Mrs. Khaze uses programs like Desmos and AP Classroom to create a comprehensive, well-rounded math approach and enhance classroom instruction. Stone Ridge’s faculty are reimagining how math is taught, ensuring that students of all abilities keep up and have the tools to thrive.
Upper School Math Teacher Reyhaneh Khaze is redefining math education at Stone Ridge through innovative tools like DeltaMath, empowering students to master complex concepts at their own pace and fostering confidence, curiosity, and a love of learning that extends far beyond the classroom.