If you’ve ever wondered what to actually do during small group time in math, this episode will give you a clear and practical way to support students without lowering expectations.
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Description:
Many school systems measure success in math education by one thing: math test scores. But what if waiting for scores to improve is actually slowing down meaningful change?
Math test scores are often treated as proof that math professional development, initiatives, or instructional changes are working. But the reality is, they’re lagging indicators—they tell us what already happened, not what’s happening right now. When math leaders focus only on math test scores and outcomes, they risk missing the daily classroom experiences that actually produce those outcomes. Sustainable improvement doesn’t come from chasing math test scores. It comes from redesigning the systems, structures, and instructional experiences that shape student learning every day.
In this episode, you’ll explore:
- Why math test scores are lagging indicators in math improvement
- The difference between activity and actual impact
- What math leaders should measure instead of waiting for outcomes
- How classroom experiences shape long-term achievement
- Why systems—not individuals—drive results
- What it means to “change the change” in math education
If you’re feeling pressure to prove improvement through math test scores alone, this episode will help you rethink what meaningful progress actually looks like—and how to build systems that create lasting change.
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Are you wondering how to create K-12 math lesson plans that leave students so engaged they don’t want to stop exploring your math curriculum when the bell rings? In their podcast, Kyle Pearce and Jon Orr—founders of MakeMathMoments.com—share over 19 years of experience inspiring K-12 math students, teachers, and district leaders with effective math activities, engaging resources, and innovative math leadership strategies. Through a 6-step framework, they guide K-12 classroom teachers and district math coordinators on building a strong, balanced math program that grows student and teacher impact. Each week, gain fresh ideas, feedback, and practical strategies to feel more confident and motivate students to see the beauty in math. Start making math moments today by listening to Episode #139: "Making Math Moments From Day 1 to 180.
