Even before the pandemic slowed learning for many, only 39 percent of California students demonstrated proficiency on the state math assessment. During the pandemic, the proportion of math-proficient students fell to one-third. At the same time, the STEM workforce faces shortages and a lack of diversity, which call into question the longstanding practice of filtering the majority of students out of advanced pathways in math, often from a young age.

To address these problems, a committee of California math educators proposed changing the approach to teaching math based on what research has revealed about what will improve math achievement and engagement. In 2021, California started the process of revising the framework that guides math instruction.


Mulling Changes to Math Instruction





Also In this Issue

The Impact of COVID-19 on Math Achievement

By Jennifer Sattem, Matt Dawson and Elizabeth Peyser

Without urgent attention, the problem of unfinished learning will compound as students advance to later grades.





High-Dosage Tutoring

By Beth Schueler

Strong evidence points to equity and well-being benefits from well-designed programs.





Advancing Science Instruction

By Bobbi Newman

State boards can lean into efforts to boost K-12 science literacy and beef up access to high-quality, inquiry-based education.





The Urgent Need for Tailored Math Instruction

By Joel Rose and Michael Watson

States can shift away from grade-level myopia to help students catch up.






10 Lessons Learned from the Science Classroom

By Ryan Fuhrman

Experience with high-stakes accountability informs teacher's standards setting on the state board.





Mulling Changes to Math Instruction

By Jo Boaler and Jennifer Langer-Osuna

A framework proposed in California seeks to boost achievement by increasing the engagement of all students.





Achieving Equity and Excellence in Mathematics Teaching

By Yasemin Copur-Gencturk

States should revamp how teachers are equipped to deliver effective instruction.







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Connecting Schools and Communities

Authors in this issue of the Standard suggest myriad ways in which communities can be force multipliers for ensuring that all children are engaged in learning and prepared to thrive as adults.
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State Education Elections in 2024 Yield Few Shifts

Voters in nine states, three territories, and the District of Columbia elected 64 state board candidates.

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