Deans for Impact Launches Network to Transform K-3 Math Instruction in Texas

AUSTIN, Texas (December 5, 2024) – Deans for Impact (DFI) has launched the Early Numeracy by Scientific Design Network, a new initiative to transform teacher preparation in early mathematics. This first-of-its-kind network brings together teacher-preparation programs in Texas to ensure aspiring educators are equipped to teach foundational math skills effectively, empowering every student with the opportunity to be successful in math.

Strong math skills are not only foundational for responding to the rapid need for more STEM (science, technology, engineering, mathematics) careers but are also essential for building critical life skills such as problem-solving and analytical thinking. The 2022 National Assessment of Educational Progress (NAEP) reported the lowest math proficiency scores since 1990, with only 36 percent of fourth graders performing at or above proficiency, and wide achievement gaps along racial and socioeconomic lines. Moreover, 2023 Programme for International Student Assessment (PISA) results demonstrate the United States falling behind many other developed countries in mathematics performance, signaling deep concerns about its global competitiveness.

“Students deserve access to rigorous and inclusive math education,” said Amber Willis, Vice President of Program at DFI. “Through this network, we are ensuring that aspiring teachers are not only grounded in evidence-based mathematics but also equipped with the instructional tools they need to reach every student effectively.”

With the generous support of the TLL Temple Foundation, the Early Numeracy by Scientific Design Network is a year-long effort that has kicked off with three participating teacher-preparation programs – Sam Houston State University, Stephen F. Austin State University, and Texas A&M University-Texarkana – which collectively prepare nearly 3,000 aspiring teachers annually and are the three largest providers of educators in East Texas. As one of the largest producers of teachers nationally, Texas has a critical role to play in setting the stage for what strong math preparation can look like. Together, these programs aim to create a scalable model for transforming math education at the earliest levels.

Over the next year, DFI will support participants with:

• Building shared understanding of current teacher preparation practices, through reviewing current course content, clinical teaching experiences, and school site visits to identify areas for strengthening teacher-candidate experiences

• Development of early numeracy instructional modules, which are practice-based modules integrated into coursework to ground math instruction in research-based teaching practices

• Collaborative learning communities, including multiple convenings and site visits to foster cross-program learning, collaboration, and continuous improvement among teacher-educators

DFI brought together all participating programs for the first network convening in November, with participants stating that it “open[ed] new lines of communication, previously closed, that will help foster new growth for our candidates” and that “we want to work together, and now we have a starting point.”

While more than 25 states have passed legislation to improve literacy instruction, math education has not received the same level of attention and direction. However, the stakes are just as high as U.S. students must be ready to navigate the demands of a rapidly-evolving economy and global landscape. With a strong track record of driving instructional improvement in teacher preparation for nearly 10 years, DFI is uniquely positioned to lead this transformative effort. In addition to this network, the organization is collaborating with teacher-educators, leaders, and policymakers across the country to ensure policies are informed by practice and grounded in a scientific understanding of how students learn.

About Deans for Impact (DFI)

DFI is a national nonprofit organization with a mission to ensure every child is taught by well-prepared teachers. We support educator-preparation programs to bring the science of learning into teaching practice; partner with policymakers to ensure pathways into teaching are accessible, practice-based, and focused on instruction; and equip leaders with the tools to address today’s most pressing challenges in educator preparation. Guided by principles of cognitive science, we aim to help aspiring and early-career teachers create rigorous and inclusive classrooms where all children thrive. To learn more, visit deansforimpact.org.

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Media contact:
Cece Zhou
czhou@deansforimpact.org
248-854-0630