Math Curriculum & Instruction

Charlotte Mecklenburg Schools + Gates Foundation

140,000 students — 6th - 8th

4 years

Charlotte-Mecklenburg Schools

Supported instructional coaches in learning the new curricular materials by creating collaborative content and coaching professional learning to support teachers to learn and utilize the new curriculum with integrity.

Results

  • 10/12 pilot coaches adjusted PLC structures to increase time spent on instructional conversations

  • 100% of math coaches felt more confident leading teachers through the curriculum adoption

Take Away

  • Teacher identity is very intertwined with curriculum and resources. This must be directly addressed and continually discussed for new materials to be utilized with integrity and shift instruction and the student experience.

“Whoever is doing the talking is doing the thinking. And whoever is doing the thinking is doing the learning.”

Mario Valdez, Math Unmuted Podcast

Dickson County Schools + Tennessee Department of Education

8,000 students — 6th - 12th, focus on middle school

2 years

Dickson County Schools

Supported the adoption of new curriculum by co-developing a K-12 math vision and instructional priorities to ensure aligned communication, training, and coaching during the adoption of new state standards.

Results

  • 100% of coaches felt valued & heard, & 95% recommend the custom group coaching process

  • Instructional improvement of 48% around teachers using multiple representations, and 32% around teachers asking open-ended questions and students discussing their thinking

Take Away

  • A curriculum switch alone has limited impact on student outcomes. A shift in mindset, an openness to learn new instructional strategies, and aligned communication from leadership are necessary components to instructional improvement.