SMMUSD Beliefs About Mathematics

The Santa Monica-Malibu Unified School District, in alignment with the California Department of Education and the National Council of Teachers of Mathematics, holds the following core beliefs about mathematics:

• All students have the capacity to do mathematics
• Students need to engage daily in mathematics
• Mathematics instruction is enhanced when based in problem-solving
• Mathematical comprehension is maximized when emphasis is placed on thinking and reasoning
• On-going routines allow students the opportunity to develop mathematical fluency.
• Teachers need to build their own knowledge in mathematical content and pedagogy
• Quality instruction fosters an appreciation and confidence in mathematics

“To compete successfully in the worldwide economy and to participate fully as informed citizens, today’s students must have a high degree of comprehension in mathematics. The new goal is that all students will attain California’s mathematics standards for K-12 and that many will be inspired to pursue advanced studies in mathematics.” – Mathematics Framework for California Public Schools

The components of a quality mathematics program include:

• A balance of instruction between computational skills, concept building, and problem-solving
• Students engaged in sense-making of mathematical concepts
• Content placed in real-world context and connected to other concepts and subject areas
• Opportunities for students to dialogue and write about math problems with teachers and peers
• Multiple entry points for students of all levels to access content
• Students encouraged to utilize and create flexible strategies when solving problems
• Regular formative and summative assessments to determine what students know and to guide instructional decision making

“…proficiency in mathematics is a consequence of sustained student effort and effective teacher instruction. All students are capable of understanding mathematics, given the opportunities and encouragement to do so.” – Mathematics Framework for California Public Schools