Powerful Mathematicians Who Changed the World, G Federico Ardila and What We Do When Fairness Fails Us

What We Do When Fairness Fails Us is part of the Powerful Mathematicians Who Changed the World Book Series

How can we use math to understand—and solve—challenges in our world? In What We Do When Fairness Fails Us, Moises, Marissa, and Astrud realize that a specialized high school uses a lottery for admission that prevents many qualified students from attending. As they research how lotteries work, they come across videos by Federico Ardila, a mathematician who explains concepts like randomness and probability and how they apply to our everyday lives. Join Moises, Marissa, and Astrud as they learn from Federico how they can use math—and their voices—to change unfair systems and help people get the opportunities they deserve.

Maria del Rosario Zavala is an associate professor of elementary education at San Francisco State University. Her work focuses on bilingual education, mathematics teaching, and equity-centered practices that support culturally responsive learning environments.

Toya Jones Frank is an associate professor of mathematics education at George Mason University. Her research focuses on mathematics education policy, teacher development, and equity in secondary mathematics.

Zandra de Araujo is an associate professor at the University of Florida. Her research focuses on mathematics instruction for English learners and curriculum design to promote equity and access.