It is no secret that many students are not passionate about math. Students feel disconnected from what is taught in class, unsure of the benefits of math and reluctant to pursue careers in the field.

In Erin Bryan’s 5th grade math classroom, TGIF takes on a whole new meaning. Fridays don’t just herald the coming weekend. They’re also game days. “They all come in here on Fridays pumped,” said Bryan ...