Teacher Sarah Garde has developed an interdisciplinary math curriculum called "Math Paths" at Los Lunas Middle School in Los Lunas, in which students learn math concepts through imaginary scenarios. In one component of the curriculum, students select and research their "dream careers," using salary and tax figures to calculate their disposable income and shop for dream homes and vehicles. In another project, called "Dream Houses," students apply principles of geometry to the design of an imaginary home, including a floor plan and elevations. They also research the cost of materials and in some cases build scale models. A former financial analyst, Ms. Garde has received over $120,000 in grant funding for school enrichment and enhancement programs.
