MCC Math Instructors Warren Colavito and Daniel Rios are not only smart, they’re a very earnest pair. “I’m trying to build a bridge,” explains Colavito. “We are trying to make math accessible to all students, whether they are in high school now or returning to school later as an adult.” Rios agrees. “We are conquering fears. If we can help a student develop confidence in math, they gain a life-long tool.”

Colavito, originally from Sanford, joined MCC seven years ago, and was responsible for redesigning nine math courses with free textbooks and free homework software. Colavito is also a chaperone for the high-level NC-MATYC competition which happens every fall; historically MCC sends five students to the all-day competition to test-out their math chops. Last year, the MCC team placed seventh overall.

Rios, who hails from Pikeville and resides in Asheboro today, is in his second year with the College. One of the instruction metrics he is tracking is class participation, which has grown to over 50% in some classes. Rios credits modern ways of connecting with students, including group practice, individual work, plus one-on-one with the instructor. While he doesn’t provide answers, Rios likes to tell students what pitfalls to look for when problem solving so they build a toolkit as they progress.

It’s true, most math students are visiting Colavito and Rios for a required math course on the way to another destination. However, they are discovering some repeat customers are trying a second and third class just for fun. “Solving any kind of problem is pretty satisfying on its own merit,” said Rios. “But mastering a math problem in class together as a team is one of the finest “ah-ha” moments you will ever see.”