FAQ

If you don't find your answers here, please contact us; we would love to answer any questions you have.


Do you offer virtual/remote math classes?

Yes. In fact we have dozens of students who use remote classes. Currently, we use Zoom for most of our virtual teaching.

How much are your classes? 

See our Tuition page for pricing info. 

Are you connected with Russian School of Math (RSM)?

No, we are not an affiliate of RSM. We are a small family-owned private business. A noticeable difference between RSM and us is we do not believe that you should pay for a tutoring or after-school program that mimics the "one-size-fits-all" school environment in which the unique needs of each student is not the main focus. We think that large, heavily structured, commercial-sized groups are not what parents are looking for in a high-quality program and that is not the best investment to challenge and grow children academically.

How are you different from RSM?

Our lead teachers have extensive experience working in the best Moscow and Saint-Petersburg Schools in Russia, which specialized in children's mathematics. Plus, they participated in the development and implementation of dozens of math school programs. At Pi Math School:

  • We use the best teachers and mentors
  • By design, our student groups are kept small
  • Every group has a curriculum created for that particular group, based on the student's unique needs
  • Each student is taught in a way that maximizes their mental development
  • We offer free, online support for both parents and students
  • Unlike most other math schools, we do not require a yearly contract
  • Our payment schedule is flexible and convenient for parents

It looks like the length of your sessions is shorter than what RSM offers, why is that?

Great question! The qualifications of our teachers, the focused class structure, and small hand-picked groups are designed to engage and challenges your children. We strive for optimal teaching with every session, to the greater benefit of your child.

What is the difference between the Pi Math School program and Kumon?

Our fundamental teaching approach is different. It is based more on understanding concepts rather than repetitive mat exercises and drills. We want all of our student to become independent, critical, and creative thinkers.

How old must my child be to enroll?

We normally teach children from 5 years and up. Our regular program offers classes for kids in Kindergarten to 12th grade. However, we can take younger students if they are ready, an evaluation will help our teachers determine if they are ready.

Do we need a placement test to enroll at Pi Math School?

Not a placement test; we believe your child has enough "test stress" in school. Instead your child will need to have a no-stress evaluation from our professional teachers. The evaluations are free and no obligation. 

  • Our evaluation is more like an informal talk, which gives our teachers a good idea where to start your child's math path
  • After the initial placement is done, we will constantly monitor their progress and learning
  • We often re-evaluate to make sure we have the best groups placement for your child as they grow and learn

Can my student attend a trial class at Pi Math School before I commit to enrollment?

Absolutely, we'd love to have you visit, no strings attached. We want to ensure you and your child are convinced and eager to join us. So, please feel free to visit our classes. Contact us to get started.

Can we start attending Pi Math School at any time during the year?

Yes. After an evaluation we will develop a special plan for your child depending on theirr initial mathematical skill level.

How big are your classes at Pi Math School?

We typically have groups from 3 to 8 students. This way we can guarantee that every student in the group is getting a personalized attention and learning benefits. Every group has their own customized curriculum, which we discuss with parents when the student group is formed.

How does Pi Math School get young children to concentrate for a one or two-hour math class?

The variety of activities and methods our teachers use naturally allows that to happen. Our classes are designed to be fun, engaging, and most importantly, support their age levels.

Plus, we do not have classes for younger students that are more than 2 hours. As appropriative, we can also offer 1-hour or 1.5-hour classes. Overall, the length of our sessions is adjusted to meet the needs of each child.

Is your math curriculum the same as our child's regular school curriculum?

No it is not, unless you request such specific tutoring for your student. In general, the math skill levels we teach are ahead of regular school's math programs. We have our own special curriculum, but we are also aware of the Massachusetts state math curriculum and the Common Core Standards.

Do you provide make-up classes?

We do not offer make-up classes for groups. Student have the option to join their class session remotely through Zoom, or Skype. Also, we will e-mail class homework to you, and if the child has questions we are also available for on-line help and support.

Do you provide private tutoring?

Yes, of course. Overall, our recommendation is to have your child eventually land in a small group for ongoing classes, which we hand pick to make sure you and your child are getting the best service possible.

What form of payment do you accept?

We accept all major credit cards, electronic payments and checks. You can sign up and pay through our website. We do not accept cash.

Do I have to pay up front?

No! You can pay beforehand if it is convenient for you, but we do not require up front payments. Again, you can choose your own terms as we do not require a contract. We are totally confident that once you are with Pi Math School, you will not be able to find a better more flexible math program around.

Do you use any additional textbooks?

Yes we do. For example, in elementary and middle school we use the Singapore Intensive Math series. Plus, we use challenging word problem textbooks courses in addition to our own internally developed math materials.

Do you have advanced classes like Math Competition or Calculus?

Yes, we do offer Math Competition preparation by request and calculus class is one of our regular class.

How many additional math-focused hours do you recommend per week?

Our homework should take 1 to 1.5 hours a week. Also, parents helping students with math is not a requirement. Our teachers are always ready to help and are available through the Zoom and e-mail -- even outside their normal class hours.

Do you provide financial aid?

Please contact us, we will be happy to provide you info and help.