KCSOS’s Do the Math Wins Beautiful Bakersfield Education Award
The Beautiful Bakersfield Awards, presented by the Greater Bakersfield Chamber of Commerce, honored the Kern County Superintendent of Schools (KCSOS) for its impactful Do the Math television program in the education category. This award serves as a testament to the program’s remarkable influence on education in Kern County.
The Beautiful Bakersfield Awards, celebrated annually since 1990, highlights the positive and heartwarming stories that shape the community and recognize efforts that enhance the quality of life in Bakersfield. This year, Do the Math stood out for its dedication to supporting math education for 4th to 12th-grade students.
For over two decades, Do the Math has supported students struggling with mathematics. Produced by KCSOS and aired on the Kern Education Television Network (KETN), this standards-based mathematics TV show and free tutoring program has evolved to encompass all aspects of STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, and Mathematics).
During the past season, Do the Math partnered with several organizations, including the Bakersfield Museum of Art, Science 4 Kern, Panama Buena Vista Union School District’s Music Department, the Bakersfield Symphony, Valley Strong, and NASA’s Armstrong Flight Research Center. These collaborations brought a diverse array of educational content to the show, demonstrating how math is used in the region’s industries.
Additionally, this year Do the Math introduced two innovative segments: Let’s Talk Math and Manipulatives of Math. Let’s Talk Math showcases students from around Kern County teaching various math topics to their peers, providing a relatable and engaging learning method. Manipulatives of Math demonstrates the use of hands-on tools to help students grasp abstract mathematical concepts, making learning more interactive and effective.
Reflecting on the program’s success, long-time Do the Math host Mike Cushine expressed gratitude for the support and recognition from KCSOS and the Chamber of Commerce.
“We are deeply grateful to KCSOS and the Chamber of Commerce for their unwavering support and recognition of Do the Math as an educational pillar for math students of all needs,” said Mike Cushine. “This acknowledgment by our community members reinforces our mission of providing students with the support they need to realize how mathematics is in everything.”
Digital Television Media Producer Mackenzie Cushine also expressed her excitement about the award, recognizing that it confirms the program’s journey is on the right path.
“There is a lot of work that goes into creating the Do the Math show, so to be recognized with this great honor is exciting for the entire team,” said Mackenzie Cushine. “The show has grown from what it once was 22 years ago, and we can’t wait to see what the next 22 years have in store.”
As Do the Math prepares to kick off its 23rd season in September, it reflects on a rich history of more than 950 live episodes. You can learn more about Do the Math on their website.
Do the Math team on set at KETN
By Jennifer Bryan
Jennifer Bryan joined Kern County Superintendent of Schools in 2021 as a Communications Specialist. As a creative and motivated marketing communications specialist, she has a special knack for storytelling and content creation. Born and raised in Kern County, Jennifer has worked in major industries within the region such as agriculture and oil and gas before she made the transition to education.