March 18, 2022

California revises new math framework to keep backlash at bay

Drafters of revision tempered language, reiterated local control of 8th grade Algebra and reemphasized high-level math options are for all students.

John Fensterwald

March 18, 2022

California's new math framework offers path to greater excellence and equity

California's new math framework builds on the practices of countries with the best outcomes for teaching math and provides guidance on how to develop students’ belief in their own ability to learn.

Phil Daro

February 1, 2022

College calculus doesn't have to be a roadblock

Calculus is expected to be hard; it should not be impossible. College math departments must acknowledge their responsibility to remove barriers that bar access to STEM for historically excluded groups.

Melodie Baker

January 13, 2022

High calculus failure rates thwart students across CSU

Reforms underway in teaching college calculus. But weak math skills from high school derail students from STEM careers.

Larry Gordon

December 9, 2021

How changing math programming increases access to college and career ready courses

San Francisco Unified resequenced its math course offerings, and now more students are tackling more advanced mathematics.

Vincent Matthews

November 23, 2021

Benefits of early math experiences add up

In kindergarten, some children already have a sense of what math means and how it functions while others lack a basic understanding of numbers.

Karen D'Souza

November 5, 2021

One district's faulty data shouldn't drive California's math policy

California's 2022 revision of the mathematics framework should be where we come together to improve on what actually works — and be based on peer-reviewed data.

Seeyew Mo

July 26, 2021

A rush to calculus leaves some students behind in California

The state is in the process of rewriting its mathematics guidance for schools and teachers, hoping to expand access to advanced math.

Sydney Johnson

June 1, 2021

Make good on California’s commitment to equity — fund computer science classrooms

Almost two-thirds of California high schools lack computer science courses and schools serving predominantly low-income students are four times less likely to offer advanced placement computer science courses.

Julie Flapan and Allison Scott

May 20, 2021

California math curriculum spurs new controversy about accelerated learning

Voluntary guidance for math instruction faces criticism from parents saying it stunts potential for students in advanced math pathways.

Sydney Johnson

May 17, 2021

Summer school plans hinge on teacher energy

California school districts have plenty of money for robust summer school programs this year, but teachers may just be too tired to sign up.

Diana Lambert

February 19, 2021

California students watch and learn through hands-on projects as Mars rover lands

Teachers have crafted weeks and even months-long lessons culminating with the historic Mars rover landing on Feb. 18.

Sydney Johnson

January 19, 2021

How one California preschool program is helping youngest learners with math

A state-funded program is designing strategies for families to keep kids learning at home even when in-person preschool is canceled.

Sydney Johnson

January 14, 2021

California school officials push for standardized testing waiver amid Covid-19 spike

California education officials voted to shorten annual tests in math and reading after federal officials said waivers would not be available in 2021.

Sydney Johnson

December 15, 2020

One more challenge for California teachers in distance learning: All new science curriculum

School districts like West Contra Costa Unified lacked updated learning materials aligned to California’s new science standards prior to the current school year.

Sydney Johnson