Math meets the marketplace across continents
ANSBACH, Germany – After reading a DoDEA Connects article highlighting a real-world mathematics field experience at Humphreys Middle School, Dr. Tricia Surinak, Advanced Academic Program Service Resource Teacher (AAPS RT) at Ansbach Middle High School (AMHS), reached out to Ms. Ebony Sherrod, AAPS RT at Humphreys Middle School (HMS), to explore bringing the project to Europe. That professional connection soon developed into an authentic and engaging learning experience for Ansbach Cougar sixth graders, illustrating the power of collaboration across time zones.
The project focused on applying classroom instruction to real-life situations through a math study trip to the Ansbach DECA Commissary. Prior to the store’s opening to the public, commissary manager Shastine Boyce and deli manager Jennifer Ayat explained how mark-ups and surcharges affect pricing. Their presentation provided students with valuable insight into the operations behind commissary pricing and set the stage for hands-on learning.
Working in teams of three to four, students moved throughout the store using a shared worksheet worksheet developed by Ms. Rachel Moon (HMS Math 6 teacher), which guided them through unit rate calculations and price comparisons. Students analyzed everyday items such as snacks, cereals, and drinks, calculating cost per unit and determining the best buy. “I never realized how much math you use just to go grocery shopping,” one sixth-grade student shared. “Now I understand why my parents compare prices.”
The study trip was supported by a wide range of volunteers, including parents, teachers, an administrator, and 11th- and 12th-grade National Honor Society students, who served as team leaders and mentors. Their participation helped students stay focused and provided opportunities for discussion and guidance. An NHS volunteer reflected, “It was great helping the younger students see how math actually matters. They were excited, and it reminded me that these skills really do make a difference in everyday life.”
Student engagement remained high throughout the experience as groups selected favorite items and eagerly compared prices. The activity concluded on a celebratory note when the commissary provided snack bags and pieces of cake to the students, recognizing their effort and enthusiasm. “The best part was figuring out which snack was the best deal and then getting cake at the end,” another student commented.
Following the study trip, Dr. Surinak and Ms. Sherrod reflected on the experience, discussing successes and identifying adjustments for future math-focused field trips. Their collaboration emphasized the importance of shared resources, reflection, and professional dialogue in creating meaningful learning opportunities.
This successful project demonstrates how DoDEA Connects helps educators build bridges across regions, turning shared ideas into impactful instruction. By collaborating across continents, educators showed that professional learning and innovation can happen anywhere, anytime—benefiting students through engaging, real-world educational experiences.
