Breaking the Legacy of Mathematics Struggles

Here are some thoughts on what a student who has historically "struggled at mathematics" should be looking for in a course that will help them improve and have a chance to succeed in mathematics longer term:

• A balanced focus on the "three pillars of mathematics":
• Concepts, 
• Procedures, and
• Facts
• The opportunity to practice...every day!
• A chance to develop an appreciation for the applications of math...everywhere
• A teacher they can trust and who is driven to help them succeed
• Opportunities for periodic successes
• Opportunities to have some fun in class
• Resource(s) to go to for help when they need it (possibly online)
• Opportunities to recover from mistakes (or, more likely, bad decisions)
• Support outside of school - from family and friends

I am sure there is more but these are my thoughts for this evening.