Mathematics as a discipline is an important and beautiful human endeavor. It is an intellectual discipline worthy of study for its artistic and logical form as well as for its ability to help describe and interpret the world around us. To the extent of their abilities, all students at New Trier should have the opportunity to learn to view mathematics as a way of thinking and to appreciate the cultural heritage of mathematics. In addition to grasping ideas and understanding their interrelations, it is important for students to communicate these ideas effectively to others.