A local couple recently opened a math learning center in new Mayfaire space.

Franchisees Cindy and Clay James celebrated a Wilmington Chamber of Commerce ribbon-cutting Monday of their new Mathnasium location, Suite 140 at 6800 Parker Farm Drive in Mayfaire Community Center.

In addition to safety and visibility, the couple chose the Mayfaire area to open a Mathnasium because of convenience, they said Monday afternoon.

"We liked that parents could come and, while their kids are working, they have plenty of places to go right around here to run errands," said Cindy James, who in addition to being co-owner is also the center's director.

Open 3-7:30 p.m. Monday through Thursday and 10 a.m.-2 p.m. Saturday, the local Mathnasium currently employs seven part-time instructors, Clay James said. Instructors have to take a math test before they are granted an interview and then receive Mathnasium Method training.

Larry Martinek, creator of the Mathnasium Method, opened the first Mathnasium in 2002 in Los Angeles. 

Cindy James said her goal for the ratio of students to instructors is 3-to-1. Students receive an initial assessment to gauge their needs, she said.

The cost varies, but Mathnasium also has year-round and six-month memberships, with monthly fees based on age and ability. The center operates in the summer too.

"Every student gets a personalized curriculum to walk them through their math learning," said Clay James, who in addition to the Mathnasium franchise also works as a contractor for the federal government.

The couple have four sons, two in college and two who are home-schooled, Clay James said.

Mathnasium is one of the latest tenants at Harris Teeter-anchored Mayfaire Community Center, where new buildings have recently joined the mix of offices, restaurants and other businesses.