4J is trying out new instructional materials in mathematics in all grade levels to ensure students see themselves as strong mathematicians prepared to meet the demands of college and career.

Ninety classrooms are piloting the new materials, which focus more on helping them understand the underlying mathematical principles and ideas.

This change will better position students for math education after middle school now that they will have one of three major sequences in high school: calculus, data reasoning or quantitative data. In addition, 4J is committed to improving state assessment results in mathematics, and adoption of high-quality curriculum is a major strategy toward achieving that goal.

Following an extensive review process last year, a team of teachers and district staff selected two curricula for piloting in elementary, middle and high school classrooms. They are:

• Elementary School (grades K-5): Bridges in Mathematics 3.0 and Illustrative Math v360
• Middle school (grades 6–8): i-Ready Math and Midschool Math
• High School (grades 9–10): Illustrative Math and Open Up High School Mathematics

The team will make a final recommendation to the school board for adoption this spring. Once adopted, the new instructional materials will be rolled out in all 4J classrooms next fall. The team created a video detailing the curriculum being tested and the adoption process. You're invited to provide feedback using this online form after watching the video.