The National Assessment of Educational Progress showed that only 26 percent of eighth graders were proficient in math, with the results even lower for low-income, Black, and Hispanic students.
Almost Fun aims to help students unlock joy and confidence in their math learning through online math lessons that include animations, memes, and references to pop culture. By offering a mobile-responsive website and an app, Almost Fun ensures its content is available to students through a range of desktop and mobile devices, improving accessibility and reach.
Since launching in 2019, Almost Fun has increased its student reach by 100x, scaling organically through word of mouth and strong search engine optimization from 8,000 to 803,000 students in just two years; 521,950 of students on the platform identify as low-income and 562,100 identify as Black, Indigenous, or people of color. The organization has also increased engagement on its platform, with students on average completing 10 percent more practice problems this year compared to last.
Almost Fun’s unique focus on math enrichment that is both fun and culturally-relevant is resonating with its users. Eighty-three percent of students report an improved understanding after using Almost Fun, and 92 percent report improved math confidence and reduced anxiety.
Overdeck Family Foundation’s funding has allowed Almost Fun to continue its growth while also engaging in capacity-building support in budget forecasting that will help the organization better understand the key factors that drive program costs in order to increase cost-effectiveness and plan for long-term sustainability.