IEQ: Success in Algebra: Improving Special Education Teaching Practice

Senate Bill 1 not only calls for revision of standards but also requires that the assessment and accountability system be revised. The recent adoption of the Common Core State Standards (CCSS) in mathematics has great implications for teachers and many of those challenges are addressed as part of this proposal. This is especially true for special education math teachers who must bridge the gaps in content understanding that is required for special needs students so they leave our K-12 systems prepared for success in college and the skilled workplace. Building on the success and lessons learned of the previously funded IEQ proposals who have worked with special needs math teachers, this project will provide the content and strategies, including interventions, for special education teachers to facilitate and develop effective classroom experiences for their students. The content focus will be on developing a deeper understanding for the teacher participants on number concepts as they relate to success in algebra. The interventions are necessary for special needs students who have gaps in learning so they are prepared for and can be successful in Algebra I courses. This proposal is targeted to work with a total of 20 special education middle and high school mathematics teachers from five districts: Breckinridge, Hancock, McLean, Ohio, and Owensboro Independent. The project consists of full-day academic year cadre meetings, two summer institutes (June 2013 and June 2014), and a webpage/online community. The participants have already been identified and their districts and schools have agreed to release them for project activities. The project design and subsequent facilitation will utilize the expertise from a broad partnership led by the P-12 Math and Science Outreach office of the Partnership Institute for Math and Science Education Reform (PIMSER) at the University of Kentucky, Morehead State University and the PIMSER Master Teachers (Regional Teacher Partners/RTPs).