That's part of the Eureka Math method. "Eureka Math always asks you to explain," Himes said. Northwood administration and teachers suggested Barber do the same when helping her son with his homework.

What is Eureka Math? The Common Core-aligned curriculum equates mathematical concepts to stories, with the aim of developing conceptual understanding.

This 'crazy math' is delivering astounding results for one JCPS school Alex R. Kennedy Elementary credits its stellar scores to curriculum that many parents don't understand.

Other teachers, and some parents, have been more resistant, saying Eureka is too complex, too difficult to grasp and prevents parents from helping students with homework.