Washington, D.C. - The Council of Chief State School Officers (CCSSO) today released a math report that provides a series of actions state education leaders can take to improve student outcomes. The report, A Nation of Problem-Solvers: How State Leaders Can Help Every Student Achieve in Math, analyzes the current research base in mathematics and highlights states that are leveraging promising practices that yield positive results.
These practices go beyond just enacting policies and emphasize the importance of supporting educators at every level of the system in adapting, integrating and sustaining new approaches. Though several states are making strides in elevating math scores, work is still needed to reverse the troubling decline seen across the nation. For example, according to the National Assessment of Educational Progress (NAEP), fourth and eighth grade mathematics scores have experienced the largest decrease since the test began in 1990.
“Our students need a strong foundation in math so they develop problem-solving and critical thinking skills needed for their future,” said Carissa Moffat Miller, CCSSO Chief Executive Officer. “State leaders are committed to all students achieving these skills so they can pursue high-paying, in-demand careers.”
Across the country, many states, including those highlighted in this resource, are making considerable progress in enhancing mathematics education by leveraging evidence-based practices. Some recognizable achievements reported by states include a) a double-digit increase in students who tested proficient on state math assessments, b) average student achievement exceeding prepandemic levels in math and c) increased enrollment in advanced math classes.
Considering the current research and levers available to influence large-scale instructional improvements, this report recommends six concrete actions that state leaders can take to enhance student math outcomes at scale:
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Signal quality and incentivize the adoption of high-quality instructional materials.
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Incentivize district partnerships with high-quality professional learning providers.
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Provide guidance and support to districts to align supplemental and intervention learning experiences with core instruction.
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Support districts to streamline assessment systems and leverage real-time student data.
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Expand early access to advanced mathematics courses.
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Align state education agency resources to support implementation.
Click here to access the report and learn how states are proving constructive change is achievable when effective strategies are implemented with care and commitment.
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The Council of Chief State School Officers (CCSSO) is a nonpartisan, nationwide, nonprofit organization of public officials who head departments of elementary and secondary education in the states, the District of Columbia, the Department of Defense Education Activity, Bureau of Indian Education, and five U.S. extra-state jurisdictions. CCSSO provides leadership, advocacy, and technical assistance on major educational issues. The Council seeks member consensus on major educational issues and expresses their views to civic and professional organizations, federal agencies, Congress, and the public.
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