All students in grades 6-9 are eligible for the program. The only other requirement is an interest in exploring new mathematical topics and solving challenging problems.

What does it cost to join the Marin Math Circle?

There is no required fee. The program is funded by grants and donations from parents and community members. We suggest a donation of $100 per student for the 2010/2011 academic year, to help cover the cost of course materials and speaker honoraria. While we understand that not every family can contribute, we hope those who can will contribute.

Can I join now?

You can join any time, as long as there is room. To register fill out the online registration form. Once your registration is received, you should get a confirmation by phone or email within a week or two. If there is room in the circle, you can start coming as soon as you hear back from us. If we are already at our maximum of 40 students when you register, then you'll be put on a wait list until there is room.

When and where does the Math Circle meet?

Sessions are on Wednesdays during the school year from 6:30-8:00 pm. Most weeks, there will be an optional problem solving session following the circle from 8:00-8:30, during which students can share ideas and solutions to problems from the previous week. The schedule lists meeting dates and breaks.

The circle meets in room 201 of Guzman Hall at Dominican University of California. Dominican is located at 50 Acacia Ave. in San Rafael. See the campus map to locate Guzman Hall.

Where is the best place to park?

Parking is available in the parking lot of the Conlan Recreation Center at the corner of Acacia Avenue and Grand Avenue. There is no charge for parking.

To get from the parking lot to the Math Circle: Cross Grand Ave. Walk east on Acacia towards the main campus (down the south sidewalk of Acacia). Guzman Hall will be on your right.

What do I need to bring?

Please bring a pencil and paper to every session. Graph paper and colored pencils are often useful as well. The first time you attend, please bring a waiver form signed by your parents.

What if I have to miss a meeting?

Please let us know in advance if you will be absent, by emailing nance24cat(at)yahoo.com. You may be able to find handouts from the session you missed by following links on the schedule.

How is this different from Mathcounts and Mathletes?

Mathcounts and Mathletes are programs that center on competitive, timed contests. Problem solving at the Math Circle is collaborative -- you'll be working on problems together with your friends. Instead of solving a bunch of unrelated problems, Math Circle lets you explore new mathematical topics in depth. For example, one session may be entirely about 4 dimensional geometry. Another session may be about game theory. Sessions are led by mathematicians, with leaders changing every session or two.