We had the good fortune of connecting with Courtney Daniels Ed.s and we’ve shared our conversation below.
Hi Courtney, can you walk us through the thought-process of starting your business?
The thought process behind starting Middle Math @ Home was my desire to create a supportive, engaging learning environment where middle school students could truly connect with math and feel confident in their abilities. As an experienced educator, I’ve seen firsthand how learning gaps can hold students back, and I wanted to build a program that addressed those gaps with accessible, comprehensive instruction tailored for online learning. I’m passionate about making math not just a subject to get through but a skill to master with enthusiasm and confidence.
I recognized that sometimes the traditional classroom setting isn’t enough to meet every student’s needs. I wanted to provide that extra layer of support to help students overcome struggles and foster meaningful growth. I designed Middle Math @ Home to be a space where students could get the targeted help they need to improve, learn at their own pace, and build a solid foundation in math. My goal has always been to bridge learning deficits and inspire a love for learning, proving that with the right support, any student can succeed.
Alright, so let’s move onto what keeps you busy professionally?
For Pearson Virtual Schools, I’m currently a Lead Intervention Specialist supporting math intervention for students in grades K-9, where I help struggling math learners find their confidence and success in a subject that many find daunting. Balancing this with running my own business, Middle Math @ Home, has been an incredible journey that reflects my passion for creating accessible and effective math education.
What sets me apart is my deep commitment to meeting students where they are and building a strong foundation of understanding and confidence. I don’t just see math as a series of problems to solve—I see it as a tool that, when approached with the right support, can unlock a student’s potential. I strive to make math approachable, even fun, so that students feel empowered rather than intimidated.
Getting to where I am today wasn’t easy. It took years of refining my approach, learning to adapt to different learning styles, and constantly finding ways to connect with students in a meaningful way. One of the biggest challenges was learning how to balance the demand of being a full-time interventionist with the demands of running my own business. But I learned that organization, persistence, and a genuine love for what I do make all the difference. I learned to be patient—with myself and the process—and to celebrate the small wins that build into big successes.
Through it all, I’ve learned that passion and dedication have a way of shining through. I want the world to know that Middle Math @ Home isn’t just a business; it’s an extension of my heart as an educator. It’s about providing students with a supportive environment to grow, learn, and realize they can tackle any challenge with the right tools and mindset. My story is about turning challenges into opportunities and finding joy in helping others find their way to success in math.
Let’s say your best friend was visiting the area and you wanted to show them the best time ever. Where would you take them? Give us a little itinerary – say it was a week long trip, where would you eat, drink, visit, hang out, etc.
If my best friend was visiting, I’d plan a week of laid-back, cozy activities that capture the best of what my area offers without being overwhelming. I’m all about easy, memorable moments that make you feel at home, so our itinerary would reflect that vibe.
Day 1: We’d kick things off with a relaxed brunch at a local café with outdoor seating, perfect for sipping lattes and catching up. Afterward, we’d take a stroll through a nearby botanical garden or park—somewhere we can chat and soak in the peaceful scenery. Dinner would be at a comfort food spot that serves hearty dishes, the kind that makes you want to stay for dessert.
Day 2: We’d visit a small, local museum or art gallery to get a bit of culture in, followed by an afternoon at a cozy bookstore where we could browse and find hidden literary gems. We’d pick up sandwiches from a favorite deli and have a picnic at a scenic spot. That night, it’s all about takeout and a movie marathon at home, complete with snacks.
Day 3: A day for some light exploring—perhaps a short drive to a nearby small town with unique shops and local artisans. We’d pop into a bakery for pastries and coffee, browse local boutiques, and then find a casual spot for dinner where live acoustic music sets the tone.
Day 4: Spa day! We’d book a couple of treatments at a day spa for a little pampering, followed by lunch at a healthy, fresh-eats café. The evening would be for board games or a puzzle night at home with mocktails or our favorite drinks.
Day 5: A nature day with an easy hike or walk along a scenic trail, followed by a visit to a farmer’s market for fresh produce and handmade treats. We’d head home to cook a simple, delicious dinner together with our market finds.
Day 6: Morning yoga or stretching at a local studio or by a lakeside park for some mindfulness. Then, we’d have brunch at a trendy but relaxed spot known for its seasonal menu. The afternoon would be spent doing something nostalgic like mini-golf or bowling, just for laughs.
Day 7: We’d wind down the week with a slow morning at a café, savoring breakfast while planning our next get-together. A visit to a nearby botanical garden or cozy tea room would round out the day. Dinner would be something special but still intimate—a restaurant with a beautiful view or outdoor patio that feels like a hidden gem.
Overall, it’d be a week full of easy getaways, local flavor, and quality time to make my friend feel the warmth and comfort of home, even while exploring.
The Shoutout series is all about recognizing that our success and where we are in life is at least somewhat thanks to the efforts, support, mentorship, love and encouragement of others. So is there someone that you want to dedicate your shoutout to?
I’d like to dedicate this shoutout to my mom. She’s been my rock and the driving force behind so much of who I am today. From the beginning, she showed me what it means to work hard, persevere, and lead with love. She supported me through every challenge, celebrated every win, and constantly reminded me of my worth. Her unwavering belief in me inspired my own belief in myself, even when things got tough. She’s taught me resilience, kindness, and the importance of being there for others, lessons I carry with me into my work and daily life. I wouldn’t be where I am without her love, support, and encouragement, and I’m so grateful for everything she’s done for me.
Website: https://www.middlemathathome.com
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/middlemathathome/?next=%2F
Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/courtney-davis-daniels-ed-s-87a309235/
Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@thetechymathspecialist-f8q/videos