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Parker Center - Mathematics
Elementary and Secondary Mathematics
Elementary |
The elementary and secondary mathematics efforts, initiatives and programs are focused on student growth in the five strands of mathematics: Number and Operations, Geometry, Algebra, Measurement, Data Analysis and Probability. In the classroom, students experience quality instruction that balances acquisition of basic skills with problem solving and application of mathematical procedures with understanding. The Arkansas Mathematics Curriculum Framework document from the Arkansas Department of Education provides the foundational standards for the Fort Smith Public Schools curriculum, instruction, and assessment. Each lesson and assessment is designed to align to the grade-level learning expectations and goals set forth within the document. Teachers work on the premise that all students can become mathematically literate. Initiatives such as E³ work to develop and improve student learning in mathematics through rigorous development of teacher content and pedagogy. These programs also serve to bring both elementary and secondary teachers together in a forum in which student learning is the central and primary reason for the training.
Initiatives
E³: The Fort Smith Public Schools in collaboration with the University of Arkansas at Fort Smith and area school districts has developed a program of professional development that brings together both elementary and secondary teachers (grades 6-10) to enhance student learning in the field of mathematics. The overall goals for teachers in the project are to:
•Enhance content knowledge necessary for teaching mathematics
•Enable teachers to make connections in mathematics
•Enrich mathematics teaching practice and leadership
Year one of the project (2006-2007) focused on deepening content knowledge of the important mathematical concepts from Number and Operations through six sessions during the school year and an intensive nine day institute is planned in the summer (2007) with continued work on all of the math strands (Geometry, Measurement, Algebra, and Data Analysis, and Probability) in the same format during the next two years.
Math Task Force (MTF):
Mission Statement-We will align curriculum, instruction, and assessment to improve student learning while providing support for teachers.
This committee is comprised of a representative from each elementary, junior high, and high school in the Fort Smith Public Schools. Four administrators serve with the committee, two at the elementary level and two at the secondary level. The committee is co-chaired by the district math elementary and secondary coordinators. The MTF serves to guide the district on developing curriculum pacing guides and to provide leadership and training for our teachers through district and building-level meetings.
Elementary Math Liaisons: Each elementary building has a classroom teacher designated by the building principal as the math liaison for the school district. This person serves on the MTF committee, assist building staff with interpretation of the The Learning Institute (TLI) Interim Assessment Data, and serves as a liaison between school and the district elementary math coordinator in collecting and disseminating information as needed.
