Our Team at Mathnasium of Acton Concord

Brooke Powell

Education: 

B.S. in Mathematical Sciences from Worcester Polytechnic Institute  

Years of experience teaching math: 

<1 year 

What do you like most about learning? 

I love that learning is power—it's something no one can ever take away from you. Every new skill or piece of knowledge helps you grow, and there's something incredibly rewarding about finally understanding a concept that once seemed difficult. 

What is the biggest impact you’ve had on a student’s ability to become proficient in math?

Although I haven't formally taught students, I've always been the person my classmates came to when they were stuck on a math concept. What I enjoyed most wasn't just solving the problem—it was finding a different way to explain it. Sometimes the way a professor taught something just didn't click for everyone, so I would try to connect the concept to how my classmates thought and learned. I loved seeing the moment when a confusing topic suddenly made sense because it had been explained in a way that resonated with them. 

What type of math do you enjoy teaching most?

I love both algebra and calculus. Algebra provides the foundation for so many mathematical concepts, while calculus shows how math can be used to understand and describe the world around us. 

How do you make learning math fun for students?

I think the key is taking the pressure away and building a genuine connection with students. When students feel comfortable asking questions and making mistakes, they're more willing to engage with the material and enjoy the learning process. Math becomes a lot more fun when confidence replaces anxiety.