X + Why: The Epic Origins of Math
A Full-Credit High School Math Course (Integrated Math I–II)
Ages: Middle & High School | Length: 28 weeks (14 per semester)
This class is a year long class, but is charged by semster.
Step into the story behind the symbols.
In X + Why, students explore the evolution of math from ancient number systems to modern equations, discovering not only how math works—but why it exists in the first place. Blending hands-on activities, historical storytelling, and rigorous problem-solving, this course brings together math, history, and logic in one powerful journey.
Designed for students ready to tackle Integrated Math I and II content (up through Algebra II), the course combines weekly in-person instruction with guided at-home practice. Each session features both a historical investigation (Babylonian base-60, Euclid’s proofs, Fibonacci’s calculations, and more) and a real-world math lab tied to key concepts like algebra, geometry, functions, and statistics.
By the end of the course, students will have mastered essential high school math skills, built a deep appreciation for math’s cultural legacy, and presented their own research or modeling project in our culminating event: the Museum of Mathematical Marvels.
Topics Include:
Linear, exponential, and quadratic functions
Algebraic reasoning, factoring, and equations
Coordinate graphing, slope, and systems
Geometry, transformations, and logic
Probability, statistics, and real-world modeling
Key historical discoveries from Egypt, Greece, India, the Islamic world, and beyond
Meets high school math credit requirements.Ideal for creative thinkers, STEM learners, and students who want to understand the why behind the math.
Your Instructor
Jennifer Garcia
Hello! My name is Jennifer Garcia. I graduated from Bellevue University and spent many years in the tech industry, working as a software engineer for IBM, Alpha Telecom, and Hexagon Public Safety, as well as serving as a contractor for the U.S. Embassy in El Salvador. My work took me all over, giving me a broad, global perspective and a deep appreciation for how technology, creativity, and human connection shape our world.
Throughout those years, I was also homeschooling — balancing my professional career while raising and educating my four children. It’s been a journey of more than 20 years, filled with big questions, hands-on projects, and countless kitchen-table lessons. Today, my oldest is a physicist specializing in astrophysics and theoretical physics, a path that began with backyard experiments and a love for learning.
Now, I channel all of that experience into teaching and designing courses that spark curiosity and confidence — from Spanish and creative writing to computer science, math, and immersive STEAM programs. I also serve as president of Timeless Homeschool Events Cullman, creating memorable experiences for teens and families through proms, themed dances, and immersive mystery parties. Additionally, I direct Alabama STEAM Academy, building programs that make education personal, meaningful, and community-driven.
At the heart of it all is my belief that education is an atmosphere, a discipline, a life. It’s more than academics — it’s about nurturing curiosity, building character, and growing together. I look forward to sharing this incredible learning journey with your family!