A new educational resource is taking shape in Sunnyside, as local residents Brillie Phan and Daniel Best expand their commitment to helping Queens students build confidence and skills in math.

The husband-and-wife team behind the Astoria-based Mathnasium center has officially opened a second Mathnasium location in Sunnyside, aiming to meet growing demand from families across western Queens.

“We live right here in northwest Queens with our two kids, so education is something that’s very important to our family,” said co-owner Brillie Phan. “We wanted to give back to the community we’re part of.”

After opening their Astoria location about a year and a half ago, Phan and Best began to notice a trend: families were traveling significant distances for math support. That demand made Sunnyside a natural next step.

“We’re not a big corporate office somewhere far away—we’re local residents,” added Daniel Best. “We take the same trains, walk the same streets, and our kids are growing up here too.”

At the core of the center’s philosophy is the Mathnasium Method, which emphasizes understanding over memorization.

Each student begins with a detailed diagnostic assessment designed to pinpoint not only what they may be struggling with, but why. From there, Phan and Best say instructors develop a customized learning plan tailored to the student’s individual needs.

“We focus on strengthening foundational skills while building toward more advanced concepts,” said Best. “Students work with trained instructors who guide them step by step and help develop strong number sense and problem-solving skills.”

Unlike traditional tutoring, which often centers on completing homework assignments, the couple emphasizes long-term comprehension.

“By addressing the underlying concepts, students become more confident and independent learners,” Phan added.

The Sunnyside center will work with students ranging from early elementary school through high school, covering topics from basic arithmetic to pre-calculus. It also offers a Pre-K program, “Great Foundations,” which introduces young learners to early math concepts like number recognition, patterns, and simple operations.

Older students can receive support in subjects such as algebra and geometry, as well as preparation for standardized exams including the SAT, ACT, and SHSAT.

Student growth is measured through ongoing evaluations and instructor feedback, with regular updates provided to parents through session summaries and monthly reports.

While improved grades are one marker of success, Phan and Best say confidence is often the most noticeable change.

“The feedback we hear most often is that students become much more comfortable with math,” said Phan. “They’re less anxious about homework and more willing to participate in class.”

One Astoria student, who attends a local Woodside school, exemplifies that transformation. Initially lacking confidence, the student now regularly earns perfect scores on quizzes and actively shares achievements on the center’s “Brag Board.”

“My favorite part is how the teachers explain things in a way that actually makes sense,” said student Leah Sanchez. “They’re really patient, and math feels a lot easier now.”

Her mother, Jessica Sanchez, said the difference has been noticeable both academically and emotionally. “The program has been amazing for Leah. The instructors are not only knowledgeable but incredibly supportive. You can tell they really care about the students and their progress.”

Beyond academics, Phan and Best emphasize their role as part of the community fabric in Queens. They take pride in getting to know their students personally and fostering an environment where learning feels engaging and even fun.

Through incentives like a rewards system and prize cabinet, the center aims to keep students motivated while reinforcing positive learning habits.

For families concerned about their child’s struggles with math, the couple offers reassurance.

“Sometimes students just need a different way of learning,” said Best. “With the right support, most students can build confidence and succeed. We truly believe that any kid can be a math kid.”

Families interested in enrolling can visit either Queens locations:

• Mathnasium of Astoria
  📍 23-09 Broadway, Suite 1H
  Astoria, NY 11106
• Mathnasium of Long Island City (Sunnyside)
  📍 45-54 43rd Street
  Sunnyside, NY 11104

The Sunnyside location is conveniently situated near the 46th St–Bliss St stop on the 7 train and just a short walk from the neighborhood’s main commercial strip.

With deep roots in the community, Phan and Best say they remain committed to helping Queens students succeed—one equation at a time.