Opportunity at the Intersection of High-Quality Math Curriculum & Family Engagement

We’re excited to share the first blog in a 3-part series written alongside our partners at Illustrative Mathematics. Our series will explore the surprising opportunity at the intersection of high-quality instructional materials (HQIM) and family engagement practices.

Toka Hussein is a K-5 Curriculum Specialist at Illustrative Mathematics (IM) and former elementary school teacher. Toka brings unique insights into the classroom and the crucial role that instructional materials play in shaping students’ educational experiences, including improved student learning outcomes and student engagement. 
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Elisabeth O'Bryon is a co-founder and the chief impact officer at Family Engagement Lab (FEL). Her experience as the parent of elementary school students and her background in school psychology fuels her deep passion for family engagement. Elisabeth recognizes the impact of HQIM on student learning outcomes, which is only further enhanced when families are kept in the loop and invited to partner with teachers to support their child’s learning.

Read the full blog

Cultivating growth mindsets for math

Our collaboration with Illustrative Mathematics and research with families has revealed an opportunity to boost the impact of both high-quality instructional materials and parent communication by ensuring they are tightly aligned to support student learning. Increasingly, we’re learning that a growth mindset in math is an essential skill that empowers students to take ownership over their learning.  With a growth mindset, students believe that their skills and ability grow with their effort. When faced with a challenge, they are more willing to persevere and work harder, believing that their efforts will help them overcome barriers.
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In this post, we’re exploring the connection between hiqh-quality instructional materials and regular parent communication, highlighting the importance of supporting students’ growth mindsets. Toka shares that “problem-based curriculum, like Illustrative Mathematics, set the foundation for and create the structures that support the development of positive math mindsets.”  Elisabeth adds that “families can play an essential role in modeling the power of persistence, perseverance, and resilience.” It is critical that families are equipped with specific information about the skills and concepts that students are learning to effectively support them. Elisabeth highlights the role that consistent teacher-parent communication can play in helping promote students’ positive math mindsets. 

Recommendations for developing positive math mindsets

Trusted adults in a students’ learning journey - teachers and families - play an essential role in cultivating a positive math mindset. Toka and Elisabeth share detailed recommendations for cultivating students’ growth mindsets related to math. 

• Model a growth mindset in your daily life
• Use language that demonstrates abilities can be developed
• Focus praise on efforts and celebrate growth

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