About Spirit of Math
A Legacy of Challenge and Excellence
For over 30 years, Spirit of Math has been redefining what it means to challenge high-performing students.
It began in a small Toronto classroom in 1970, where teacher Charles Ledger responded to his Grade 8 students’ struggles with algebra by creating a unique curriculum focused on foundational numeracy. His approach not only strengthened core skills but elevated learning well beyond the norm. Zion Heights Junior High soon became a math powerhouse, winning numerous provincial and national competitions.
What began as a single class has grown into a global community of learners, a system proven to spark curiosity, confidence, and collaboration. With a rigorous curriculum and expertly trained educators, Spirit of Math continues to prepare students not just for higher grades, but for leadership and lifelong success.
Our Founders
To promote co-operation, inspire confidence, and release the genius in every child.
Every class, every teacher, and every challenge reflects this mission — helping students discover the power of their own potential while learning to support the success of others.
Kimberley Langen
CEO & Co-Founder
In 1995, Kimberley Langen (née Ledger) launched the first Spirit of Math class with 35 students in the basement of her home. Today, she leads Spirit of Math Schools Inc. and Releasing Genius Inc., guiding a global network of educators and students. Recognized by Thrive Global and Disrupt Magazine as one of the top leaders transforming education, Kim continues to champion a vision where confidence and collaboration drive true excellence.
Charles Ledger
Co-Founder
Charles Ledger co-created the original Spirit of Math curriculum, combining his decades of teaching experience with an understanding of what high-performing students truly need. His belief that rigor and encouragement can coexist remains central to the program today.
Gwen Ledger
Co-Founder
Gwen Ledger’s deep understanding of children and her innovative approach to early education helped shape the teaching methods used in Spirit of Math classrooms across the country. Her legacy of compassion and structure continues to guide how we teach and connect with students.
Our Team
Kirsti Langen
Director CEO Office
Meghan McRae
Vice President of Corporate Services
Galen Goddard
Director of Finance
Meshal Medina
Director of RTG Learning & Development
Nathan Langen
Vice President RTG Operations
What is Spirit of Math?
Spirit of Math is designed for high-performing students who want more challenge than school alone provides.
Children who thrive here usually have strong foundational skills, curiosity, and a willingness to be challenged. That said, “high-performing” doesn’t mean perfect or effortless. Many of our students start out as above-average performers at school but are hungry for deeper challenges. They also get the chance to work collaboratively with peers who share that drive. Parents sometimes worry that Spirit of Math might be “too advanced” for their child, but that’s why every student begins with a free placement interview. This ensures that they’ll be placed in the right level, where they can succeed and grow without feeling overwhelmed. Our focus is not only on building advanced math skills but also on developing confidence, resilience, and a love of learning that carries into all areas of life.
Who should enroll?
Students in Grades K–11 who are achieving B+ or higher and seeking a deeper, faster-paced challenge. Curious, motivated learners thrive here.
What does a typical class look like?
Students attend one weekly class and complete focused homework. It’s a real commitment, but it’s designed to be manageable and rewarding, not overwhelming.
Spirit of Math is a commitment, and that’s part of what makes it so effective. Classes meet once a week, ranging from 45 minutes in Kindergarten to 120 minutes for high school students. On top of that, students complete weekly homework designed to reinforce concepts and develop discipline. Parents sometimes worry about the workload, especially if their child is already busy with extracurricular activities. But in reality, the weekly assignments are carefully calibrated to be manageable while still providing enough challenge to make a difference. Many families treat Spirit of Math the way they would a music program or competitive sport, something that requires dedication, but it pays off with life-changing benefits. Parents also play a role: while students are expected to take responsibility for their work, parental encouragement and involvement make a big difference. For some families, the fear is that math will quickly outpace what they can help with at home. That can happen if no time is invested, but Spirit of Math provides resources, communication, and guidance to ensure both students and parents have the tools to succeed.
Is Spirit of Math offered online and in person?
Assessments aren’t just about marks, they’re designed to track progress, build resilience, and ensure mastery year after year.
Assessments are an essential part of Spirit of Math’s system. Students complete tests, assignments, and a final exam each year to measure both their mastery of content and their growth in problem-solving ability. These aren’t just “grades on paper,” they are diagnostic tools that help teachers and parents understand where a student excels and where they may need extra practice. Each grade level builds on the one before it, so assessments also ensure that no critical skills are missed along the way. Students quickly learn that tests aren’t something to fear, but an opportunity to track progress and develop resilience. Parents receive clear communication about results, and students are encouraged to reflect on their own learning. This focus on accountability helps prepare students for the rigors of high school, university, and beyond, where deadlines, self-discipline, and measurable outcomes are non-negotiable.
Spirit of Math Timeline
Our Mission
To promote co-operation, inspire confidence, and release the genius in every child.
Spirit of Math helps high-performing students develop the thinking, discipline, and confidence needed to excel in mathematics and beyond. A place where curious minds are challenged, mathematical thinking is strengthened, and confidence grows.
The Four Elements
Spirit of Math’s Four Elements form the foundation of every program. These four pillars work together to build strong, well-rounded thinkers equipped for both academic and real-world challenges.
Core Curriculum
Structured math progression beyond classroom
Drills
Build speed, accuracy, and fluency
Collaborative Group Work
Develop teamwork, leadership, and empathy
Problem Solving
Teach creativity and critical thinking
Together, these elements create a proven path to mastery.
Our Teachers
Spirit of Math educators are more than math experts — they are mentors who guide high-achieving students to think deeply, collaborate effectively, and persist through complex challenges.
Each teacher completes over 100 hours of immersive training each year, including workshops and classroom mentorship, ensuring that they don’t just teach the curriculum — they bring it to life.
Find a Campus Near You
Explore our in-person and online programs, meet your local campus principal, and see if Spirit of Math is the right fit for your child.