I don't understand why cities in California don't just adopt a well-tested and proven public school math curriculum, like Singapore math, demonstrated to accelerate mathematical problem solving skills? Is it a "not invented here" syndrome? It isn't just rote drilling to train students to pass tests, they're being trained to solve problems.

Wikipedia has a good overview here: Web Link

What, if anything, does the school district (and/or parents) pay for the program? I do see the company uses "volunteers." The executive director is not likely a volunteer. And I hope the volunteers are screened for ability but also for criminal history. All you need is one criminal among 100 volunteers and this program will end awfully.

70% of students were behind in their math (in 2016-17?) and they advanced one year? The math would then suggest, that 70% of students are STILL BEHIND in their math. So , that is not enough to "close the academic gap" it seems?

The year to year advancement must be more than one school year (9 months) for these students, or they will forever be behind. It seems this program may be good (let's see the new test results) at preventing the students at Theuerkauf Elementary from regressing relative to their peers at wealthier schools. That is, assuming those other schools are not advancing faster than one year per year! 70% proficient advancing to 73% proficient would mean that the academic gap was still increasing for the pilot program students.

Just Math? The name doesn't exactly inspire interest.

Mom: Hey Johnny, what are you doing?

Johnny: Nuttin, Ma. Just math.

Alex M: Singapore Math isn't regarded with universal acclaim. Among it's problems, it's not as effective in teaching math facts or aligned grade-level material, requiring more extensive reworking/customization by districts. And FWIW, the example on the Wikipedia page isn't materially different from what MV students are already getting. They are taught math concepts using number lines, bars (tapes), and bonds, using concrete/pictorial/abstract methods, etc. Pointing parents to a Wikipedia page that looks essentially the same as the work their kids in primary grades might already be doing is confusing or misleading.

Actually LASD uses Singapore math in 6th and it’s excellent. My kids used it and are now going into Algebra in 7th grade (no supplementing). But it’s also an amazing school district with incredible teachers and support (we recently moved from MVWSD), so it takes a village.

Thank you Voice for this article. I just checked out the website and will sign up for a volunteer orientation.

I believe the district uses Eureka Math, which is similar to Singapore Math in starting with concrete tools and promotes understanding the concept over rote memorization. I'm sure the orientation will correct me if I'm wrong.

To the commenter worried about criminals sneaking in to teach math - all volunteers go through criminal background checks plus pass a tuberculosis screening.

I think your are right about the district using Eureka! Math as their standard adopted curriculum. I think they may have had it for several years now. Good luck volunteer!