Second graders study math, with a Dallas Mavericks slant

Brittany Cohen’s second-grade students are immersed in Mavs-themed math lessons, where every concept, from using rulers to telling time, revolves around the Dallas Mavericks.

The inspiration for this unique approach came from a student’s fandom a few years ago, sparking a friendly rivalry between fans of the Mavericks and other teams. Over time, the classroom has transformed into a Mavericks haven, adorned with posters, game schedules, and basketball hoops, reflecting Mrs. Cohen’s passion for the team.

Mrs. Cohen’s dedication to the Mavericks hasn’t gone unnoticed by her students or the school community at Glenhope Elementary. Even Mavericks player Dereck Lively came across the class on social media and was deeply touched by their enthusiasm. In a generous gesture, Lively treated the entire class to tickets for a game.

Grateful for Lively’s kindness, the students organized a lemonade stand fundraiser at Colleyville’s Kimzey Park to support his favorite charity. When Lively learned about the fundraiser through Mrs. Cohen’s social media post, he surprised the class by showing up with his mom, leaving the students in awe.

During his visit, Lively generously contributed by writing checks, signing jerseys, and donating a pair of shoes, which Mrs. Cohen cleverly incorporated into a math lesson the following day.

The impact of Mrs. Cohen’s Mavs-themed teaching extends beyond the classroom, with students like Stella, Paisley, and Scarlett discovering a newfound interest in basketball thanks to her innovative approach to math.

Reflecting on their experience, the students praised Mrs. Cohen for making math enjoyable and relatable by incorporating their interests into the lessons. Even Cameron, a Miami Heat fan, admitted to rooting for the Mavericks in Mrs. Cohen’s class to earn extra recess time, showcasing the teacher’s ability to engage students and make learning fun.