During F Block, students are given time that can be used in a variety of ways, from studying to relaxing or leaving campus. One structured option within this period is Math Lab, a peer-tutoring space where students help classmates strengthen their math skills. For many students, Math Lab has become a productive and meaningful way to use F Block, blending academic support with collaboration.
Manuela Garcia-Casas, a senior and Math Lab tutor, believes the program benefits both tutors and students.
“I’ve been a tutor for Math Lab only in senior year. I was inducted last year,” she said.
“I believe it is a good opportunity for my peers to learn.”
While she views Math Lab as “a good allocation of our time in F Block,” she also acknowledges a common student feeling, adding that she “would love to be able to go home,” if and when F Block falls on a Day 2 M. Manuela also suggested that Math Lab could expand by adding subjects such as data and financial literacy or economics.
Students who attend Math Lab say the experience is valuable. Angeline Santiler, a junior at ILS, has attended multiple Math Lab sessions and feels the environment is supportive.
“I feel as though I learned a lot,” she said. “The tutors you can tell they are genuinely trying to help you, trying their best to teach you. I left the F Block in Math Lab with more knowledge than before.”
Other students echoed this sentiment.
“It’s fantastic, I learned everything I needed to learn,” said Samir Khalil, a junior at ILS.
For tutors, Math Lab also reinforces learning. Junior Ignacio Figueroa-Valcourt explained how teaching helps him academically and personally.
“I remember things as I teach and learn more than I knew before,” he said. “To help people understand things they didn’t know before and help them leave with more knowledge than they came with feels good.”
Overall, Math Lab transforms F Block into a time of academic growth and peer connection. While some students may prefer a fully free period, many agree that Math Lab is a worthwhile and effective use of time for those seeking extra support.
