'Do the Math' to debut new studio set for 23rd season

Provided.

For more than two decades, Kern County 4th through 12th graders in need of a little extra help with their math homework have tuned into "Do the Math," a standards-based mathematics TV show and free tutoring program produced by KCSOS's Kern Education Television Network (KETN). The 23rd season began Sept. 10.

During the off season, the "Do the Math" studio received a much-needed makeover after 22 seasons. With the help of the Panama-Buena Vista Union School district, "Do the Math" now has a Promethean Activ Panel 9 to accompany the show's Smart Board, helping to create a dynamic set using the latest technology. The demonstration area has been expanded to welcome more guests and showcase the great careers and activities happening throughout Kern County.

"The rainbow of numbers that once adorned the walls have come down to make way for a more sophisticated and modern look," said host and executive producer Michael Cushine. "The new space pays respect to the past two decades but elevates the show to reflect the updated content we have been offering over the past few years."

While mathematics is the core of "Do the Math" programming, the show has evolved into all things STEAM, with an emphasis on how science, technology, engineering, arts and of course, math, is applied within real world situations and careers. A segment called "Math in the Real World" features on-location segments at local businesses, organizations and other community locations where industry professionals demonstrate practical applications of STEAM concepts in their everyday jobs.

"The idea is to get young people to understand that what they are learning in school will serve them well when they get into a career," Cushine said. "It isn't just about crunching numbers any longer. It's about collaborating with others to find different strategies when approaching a problem."

During the show, Cushine, along with several math tutors, work with students on air to solve their homework and other standards-based problems. Parents are also invited to speak with tutors on how to better help their children at home. The live TV show will air from 4:30 to 5:30 p.m. most Tuesdays and Wednesdays during the school year. Free, phone-in tutoring is available from 4 to 5:30 p.m. on Tuesdays and Wednesdays by calling (661) 636-4357 or toll free at (866) 636-6284. Students can also email their questions to [email protected].

"Do the Math" can be seen in Bakersfield and Tehachapi on Spectrum Cable Ch. 15.

For more information, visit http://www.dothemathonline.net/. You can also follow "Do the Math" on social media: Facebook:

@dothemathbakersfield, Instagram: @_dothemath_, X: @dothemathbako, TikTok: @_dothemath_, and LinkedIn: Do the Math.