Category: BlogPosts

Beyond the List: Choosing Quality Math Textbooks for California Classrooms

Choosing the right math textbook is a critical decision for California educators. While the state’s approved list provides a starting point, it’s essential to remember that being on the list doesn’t guarantee quality. In fact, many approved textbooks simply meet the bare minimum requirements. To truly empower students with effective math education, districts must look beyond the […]

Celebrating Hispanic Heritage Month: Honoring Hispanic Mathematicians and Empowering Our Students

This month, as we celebrate Hispanic Heritage Month, it’s important to recognize the incredible contributions of Hispanic mathematicians throughout history. From Albert Baez’s groundbreaking work in X-ray microscopy, where younger students can explore the world of shapes, to Alicia Prieto-Langarica’s research on using math to understand biological systems, which can help older students study the […]

Give Teaching Through Problem Solving a Try

A fundamental goal of mathematics education is to develop students’ ability to engage in mathematical problem solving. Despite our textbooks supposedly including problems labeled as “problem solving”, many teachers are uncertain how to establish a classroom environment in which students’ natural problem solving inclinations can occur. There is consensus in the mathematics education community that […]

Getting math education right

ARTICLE:  https://www.forbes.com/sites/lindadarlinghammond/2025/06/28/its-time-to-change-the-math-calculus-how-the-us-can-finally-get-math-education-right/ This article by Linda Darling-Hammond on Forbes highlights a significant crisis in mathematics education within the United States, pointing to low PISA scores and a widespread fear of math among students, leading to labor shortages in technical fields. Darling-Hamond highlights the need for comprehensive reform, drawing comparisons with high-achieving countries like Singapore, Japan, […]

ARTICLE: California poorly trains and supports teaching math

Take a moment to read the article linked below. Bottom line: California’s elementary math teachers are entering the classroom underprepared — lacking sufficient subject-matter and instructional training — just as the state mandates more rigorous and concept-focused math teaching statewide. Some main points the are really sticking with me… The National Council on Teacher Quality […]