Lastinger Listening Tour Math Summit

Of the Florida business leaders and employers surveyed, almost all cited mathematics skills—both concrete and abstract problem-solving—to be important in the workforce. They also cited a need for more high-quality math instructors with better pay and training to properly prepare students for the workforce.

How can we develop mathematics education to facilitate students from high school to their workforce? Our recommendations are to leverage school-industry partnerships, invest in teacher support, and invest in family mathematics resources. 

Mathematics educators across Florida share similar visions of the ideal math teaching environment, one full of enjoyable and collaborative exercises and abundant student support. However, they list several barriers (such as lack of time, resources, support staff, training, and funding) that prevent this ideal environment from coming to fruition.

How can the Florida education system support mathematics teachers in creating this ideal classroom? Our recommendations are to offer math-specific professional learning, to provide high-quality instructional materials, to protect teacher planning and instructional time, and to position teachers as professionals. 

Parents in Florida reported being uncomfortable with mathematics education, whether that be properly practicing math with their studnets or approaching their students’ math educators about the curriculum. Teachers, coaches, and administrators are feeling this lack of connection as well as they reported a lack of emphasis on parent involvement and support in their districts.

How can we get parents more confident and more involved in their students’ mathematics readiness? Our recommendations are for schools to offer community mathematics events, at-home resources like flyers or take-home math kits, and after-school tutoring programs to support families beyond the school day.

Our early learning educators and education centers are not afforded proper opportunities to improve their mathematics instruction methods. Whether is be lack of funding, lack of resources, or lack of time, early learning mathematics education is in need of support.

How can we ensure our early learning educators are properly equipped to teach math to the next generation? Our recommendations are to dedicate funding to early learning providers and to position them as professionals in the education industry.