Mathematics Initiative

Learning That Counts
Research shows that elementary school can determine whether children "sink or swim" in math, and that students who can understand and apply math concepts in a variety of situations are better prepared for life-long tasks.

Starting in 2000, Houston A+ Challenge helped to develop and launch two unique approaches to increasing student achievement in and understanding of mathematics in Houston ISD: the Math Specialist Network and the Reasoning Mind program. Both initiatives have received generous support from the ExxonMobil Foundation.

Math Specialist Network
In the 2008-09 school year, 22 elementary schools and 4 middle schools in Houston ISD's West Region participated in Houston A+ Challenge's Math Specialist Network. The initiative placed a math specialist at each school to provide leadership and expertise in mathematics based on nationally recognized, research-based professional development.

At their schools, these full-time math specialists provided classroom teachers and administrators with on-site support and assistance to deepen mathematics content knowledge and improve instruction. Parents also received math training through Family Math Nights, in order to help their children at home. The network was part of the ExxonMobil’s nationwide Mathematics Specialists program.

Since starting their work in 2000, math coaches have helped initiative schools chart significant gains in student achievement in mathematics. Students' commended levels of performance are also on the rise, thanks in part to improved teaching and learning stimulated by the reflective and instrutive work of the math coaches.

In the 2009-10 school year, Houston ISD adopted the A+ model and took math coaching districtwide. Houston A+ Challenge is proud to have been a partner in this innovative and effective initiative to improve mathematics instruction for students throughout the district.

Reasoning Mind
Houston A+ Challenge also partners with Reasoning Mind to bring an internationally recognized, technology-based math curriculum to fifth grade classrooms. Currently serving 17 schools in Houston ISD and piloting in 4 schools in other districts, the computer-based program allows students to self-pace their learning. Teachers can use the innovative online tools either as supplemental or replacement curriculum in regular classroom or home practices.

For more information, please contact:

Mike Webster , Program Coordinator