I teach at a University in a town of roughly 5700 people with a few towns of comparable size within twenty minutes drive. I am very much interested in starting a Math Circle in the area and am looking for advice from folks who have successfully had math circles in comparable geographic areas. In particular, I'd appreciate advice on the following topics:
- Location: Should I host the math circle on my University's campus or somewhere in the community (e.g., public library or community center)? Should its location rotate between the various towns or should it stay in the same place?
- Audience: Is it easier to attract students older than 14? Between 10 and 14? Younger than 10? Are there any examples of math circles that simultaneously cater to both older and younger students? At the same time in the same room? Or on alternating weeks?
- Publicity: What's the best way to announce the existence of the math circle? Local newspapers, directly talking to local school teachers?
And I'd certainly welcome any advice on topics I haven't mentioned.