Sioux City presenters outline elementary math vision and phased rollout of new materials

District curriculum staff and classroom teachers presented an elementary mathematics update on April 27, outlining data, instructional shifts and a proposed phased implementation of new materials and professional development.

Presenters cited three data sources'ISASP results, district common assessments and the i-Ready diagnostic (administered fall, winter and spring)'and described a trend of declining proficiency in upper elementary grades and gaps in foundational number-sense skills. Teachers and facilitators said their approach emphasizes conceptual understanding, manipulatives and classroom discourse rather than rote answers.

Presenters and roles named in the presentation included Amy Denny (curriculum lead), Vicki Van Dyke (elementary math curriculum facilitator), and classroom teachers Lizbeth Bustos (fourth grade, Hunt Elementary), Lindsay Ricksner (fourth grade, Bryant Elementary), Jordan LaPierre (second grade, Morningside Elementary) and Yesenia Macias (kindergarten, Irving Elementary). They described classroom routines used in pilot classrooms, such as "try it, discuss it, connect it," and the district's vision to "develop proficient mathematical students through hands-on experiences and productive struggle."

The curriculum committee reported it narrowed its review to two vendors and, after seeking additional information about dual-language support from a vendor and a researcher (and consultation with Milwaukee Public Schools), recommended the i-Ready classroom mathematics resource for phased implementation. The committee emphasized professional learning supports: phased implementers will receive targeted PD, and all K-5 teachers will participate in districtwide math-focused PD days in November and February to prepare for rollout.

District staff said the recommended resource package includes print and digital materials, consumables, and manipulative kits identified as necessary to support hands-on learning, particularly in kindergarten and first grade. Presenters noted some manipulative kits are outdated or missing and recommended replenishment.

Board members praised teacher work and asked clarifying questions about dual-language supports and possible downsides; presenters said the phased implementation is intended to identify and address "bugs" before districtwide rollout.

The board acknowledged the student-achievement update; the curriculum purchase to procure materials and fund PD was taken up separately and approved during the meeting.