Last year was an exciting and exhausting year for the math department. We implemented a huge change to how we teach Algebra and it resulted in moments of happiness and frustration. While we are extremely proud of the first version of the program, we always knew it was only the first iteration. We knew we would go back and reflect on what worked and add modifications for the next version.
On Wednesday we had the opportunity to share out about our program to faculty and staff who wanted to learn more. It was wonderful to see almost every department represented and many staff members as well. Here is a link to the presentation we shared if you were unable to attend our session but would like to learn more.
We initially started out with 3 goals for our program:
- de-track students
- increase student agency
- encourage collaboration and communication
Our program overall was successful in implementing these goals and we are continually refining what we’ve created. We’ve created more opportunities for break out direct instruction every week. We are tracking students’ progress more than ever through exit tickets, goal setting meetings, check ins with their lead teacher, and attendance at Math Power Hour. In addition we’ve modified our Algebra Challenge Exam for incoming freshmen to make it mastery based. Freshmen also had the opportunity to come in over the summer and get a head start on the Algebra curriculum and over 50 took advantage of this. As a result we have over half of the freshmen already into the Algebra curriculum which will increase the likelihood of them beginning Geometry this year or give them the opportunity to slow down and focus on depth if needed.
There are a lot of misconceptions about our program and I think they can be summarized here.
It was wonderful to have the opportunity to share out with our community something we are really proud of and I hope other departments will do the same. I would love to have the chance to learn more in depth about some of our other classes and programs.
