Our district is deeply committed to continuous professional learning that strengthens instructional practice and elevates student achievement in mathematics and STEM. This commitment was recently demonstrated through the completion of two cohorts of OGAP Mathematics professional development, engaging elementary educators from Williams, Providence, Morris, Ridgecrest, Blossomwood, Sonnie Hereford, Challenger, Whitesburg, Chaffee, McDonnell, AAA, and ASFL.
The OGAP Mathematics training provides teachers with research-based strategies grounded in formative assessment and learning progressions. Through this professional learning experience, educators deepen their understanding of how students develop additive reasoning, enabling them to analyze student thinking more effectively and respond with targeted instructional moves. This approach empowers teachers to meet students where they are and intentionally guide them toward deeper mathematical understanding.
By investing in sustained, cohort-based professional development, our district fosters a culture of collaboration and reflective practice. Teachers engage in meaningful conversations around student work, instructional decision-making, and evidence-based strategies that promote conceptual understanding rather than rote procedures. This focus aligns with our district’s broader STEM initiative, ensuring that foundational math skills support problem-solving, critical thinking, and real-world application across disciplines.
Ultimately, this ongoing professional learning strengthens classroom instruction and directly impacts student outcomes. By equipping teachers with proven tools and strategies, our district is building a strong mathematical foundation for all learners—one that prepares students not only for academic success, but also for future college and career pathways in STEM-related fields.
