Welcome to an Amazing Year of Growth and Algebra!

Greetings parents, guardians, caregivers, and scholars!

I am thrilled to kick off my 32nd year of teaching, and I could not be more excited for the journey ahead in the 2026–27 school year! Every single year brings fresh opportunities to learn, grow, and reach new heights together.

Our Partnership for Success

True learning thrives when we team up! Together—teacher, parent/guardian/caregiver, and scholar—we form an unbreakable bond dedicated to achieving excellence in Algebra 1 and beyond. Here is what we can build together:

• Shared Goals: Working side-by-side to eliminate achievement gaps and unlock every student's full potential.

• Holistic Growth: Elevating our mathematical awareness alongside our Emotional Quotient (EQ) and Intelligence Quotient (IQ).

• Unstoppable Effort: Making the complex simple for everyone who steps up with enthusiasm and heart!

Classroom Vision

This year, we are taking a modern, blended approach to learning! Scholars will enjoy a self-paced environment that fosters independence, critical thinking, and rich mathematical discourse. By taking ownership of their progress, students won't just study algebra—they will master it!

Let's Make It Happen!

We aren't just going to talk about potential—we are going to be about it! With high expectations, ambitious goals, and your support, we CAN and WILL accomplish extraordinary things this year.

Be an adder (+) or multiplier (×) to others, and your life will abound!

My Schedule

 

A-day 1st Period: 8:30-9:48 Algebra 1 2nd Period: 9:52-11:10 Algebra 1 3rd Period: 11:14-12:33 Algebra 1 Lunch: 12:35 - 1:00 Foundations: 1:04 -1:33 4th Period: Prep (No scholars)

B-day    1st Period: 8:30-9:48         Algebra 1   2nd Period: 9:52-11:10 AVID   3rd Period: 11:14-12:33 Algebra 1   Lunch: 12:35 - 1:00  Foundations: 1:04 -1:33  4th Period: Prep (No  scholars)

Joe Gwin, Jr, Ed.S   Intermediate Algebra, Algebra 1, Battle Creek Middle School    Saint Paul Public Schools • 2121 N. Park Drive, St. Paul, MN, 55119   Main: 651.293.8960 • Office: 651-744.6706 • Fax: 651.293.8866 joe.gwin@spps.org

 

WHAT YOU’LL EXPLORE & DISCOVER IN ALGEBRA 1:

Get ready to unlock real-world algebra! In this course, we will connect mathematical ideas to everyday life so math truly comes alive. Through daily reflection, hands-on problem solving, and collaborative thinking, you will build critical problem-solving skills and see the world through a whole new lens.

 

HOW YOUR GROWTH IS MEASURED (GRADING):

Your final grade reflects your journey and mastery of concepts:

80% Assessments: Quizzes, unit tests, and creative projects to demonstrate your understanding.

20% Practice & Applications: Homework and interactive in-class assignments.

Exit Tickets: Quick check-ins counted as classwork to help monitor your understanding daily!

 

ASSESSMENTS & CHECK-INS:

To show what you've learned, you will complete a major assessment (a quiz, test, or project) every 4 to 5 weeks. To stay prepared and build confidence, review your class notes for 15–20 minutes each night—especially on days when no written homework is assigned. If classwork isn't finished during our period, finishing it at home is a great way to keep up!

 

HOMEWORK & INDEPENDENT PRACTICE:

Expect homework at least 2 times per week to help reinforce what we learn in class. All assignments are posted on Schoology. If you're ever absent, check in with me right away so we can get you caught up. If you or your family ever have questions about assignments, feel free to reach out via email anytime!

If you have several missing assignments, please reach out to me. Together, we can determine the best strategy to improve your grade—completing every single assignment may not always be the most effective approach.

 

LET’S STAY CONNECTED:

I am always here to help you succeed! Students and parents are encouraged to contact me with any questions, thoughts, or ideas.

 

School phone:  651-744-6706

E-mail:  joe.gwin@spps.org or joe.gwin@stpaul.k12.mn.us 

Website for my class:  www.bcms.spps.org/jgwin

 

You can also go to the link below to subscribe to my youtube videos that will assist with some Algebra concepts:

 

www.youtube.com/@joegwin8037