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Have NEW educators (teachers, coaches, administrators) joined your district? Help them find the Iowa Mathematics Newsletter!
Responding to requests from instructional leaders across Iowa and school needs, the Department conducted a request for proposals to identify and enter into statewide contracts with negotiated pricing for high-quality instructional materials (HQIM) aligned to Iowa’s state standards for English Language Arts/Literacy and Mathematics.
During a competitive bidding process, publisher submissions were first reviewed to meet rigorous evaluation criteria and the highest levels of quality on EdReports. They were then reviewed and scored by a team of literacy and mathematics experts. Districts interested in utilizing the statewide contracts can contact the Department's Literacy and Mathematics consultants, Leigh Bellville and April Pforts, to obtain the contract number(s) and then are able to work directly with the vendor(s).
While not exhaustive, the following optional list of statewide HQIM is intended to support schools with options in their evidence-based curriculum review, adoption, and implementation processes. Please note, this purchasing list is not an “approved list.”
The English Language Arts and Mathematics resource list includes:
- K-5 ELA:
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Amplify CKLA by Amplify Education
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Benchmark Advance by Benchmark Education Company
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HMH Into Reading by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt
- 6-12 ELA:
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Amplify ELA by Amplify Education
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HMH Into Literature by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt
- K-5 Mathematics:
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HMH Into Math by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt
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i-Ready Classroom Mathematics by Curriculum Associates
- 6-12 Mathematics:
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i-Ready Classroom Mathematics by Curriculum Associates
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Illustrative Mathematics IM 9-12 Math by Imagine Learning
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Illustrative Mathematics Traditional by Kendall Hunt
For questions regarding the ELA materials, please contact Leigh Bellville, Literacy Consultant, at leigh.bellville@iowa.gov, and for inquiries related to the mathematics materials, please reach out to April Pforts, Mathematics Consultant, at april.pforts@iowa.gov.
According to 2024 NAEP data, only 28% of 8th graders are proficient in math, underscoring the urgent need for instructional shifts that make math both accessible and meaningful. A recent article challenges the traditional I Do–We Do–You Do model and offers a fresh approach: You Do–We Do–I Do.
Grounded in research and expert voices like Jo Boaler and Peter Liljedahl, this student-centered framework begins with productive struggle—giving students space to explore concepts and develop reasoning before formal instruction. From there, teachers guide collaborative discussion and wrap with direct instruction that connects back to student thinking.
This reversed release model builds mathematical agency, deepens understanding, and supports students in becoming math-literate problem solvers.
📖 Read the full article: ASCD – A Better Way to Model Math
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The Iowa Department of Education has begun to create a file of emerging classroom leaders that consists of a cadre of distinguished teachers and principals. The educators in this “Talent Pool” file may be considered for membership on advisory boards and task forces and could be considered as candidates for recognition and award programs.
In order to qualify for this specific Talent Pool, educators must have distinguished themselves above and beyond established, top-quality professionals in our schools. They must have between 5 and 18 years of experience in education and are full-time, building-level personnel who directly instruct students (e.g., classroom teachers, related arts teachers, etc.), or principals who are recognized by peers and supervisors as unique in their leadership and results with students.
If you know one or more educators who fit these parameters, please fill out the form linked here. We ask that you keep this recommendation confidential; do not share it with the individual or collaborate with colleagues to complete.
If you have any questions, please contact Molly McConnell, Education Program Consultant at molly.mcconnell@iowa.gov.
 Applications are open for the SIAM Support for Teaching Math Modeling (SIAM STeMM) Grant Program! Please share this opportunity widely within your networks.
This program provides support for secondary teachers (grades 7–12) to inspire their students by incorporating real-world applications of mathematics into their classes or extracurricular activities. Grants of $750 will be awarded to teachers developing and/or implementing a mathematical modeling activity in the classroom or for an extracurricular program. Awardees will share their lesson materials along with a reflection on the activity with SIAM.
The application deadline is April 9, 2025.
Eligibility/Requirements
Applicants must:
- Be secondary teachers (grades 7–12)
- Propose an activity with a mathematical modeling objective that involves a real-world scenario
Applicants must submit:
- A title and description of the proposed activity (approximately two pages), including the timeline for completion
- A description of materials to be shared (e.g., lesson plans, handouts, or a list of required materials)
- A brief resume or CV
- A letter of support from a school principal, program coordinator, or equivalent
Expectations and Deliverables
Teachers selected for the grant will be expected to:
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Develop and/or implement a mathematical modeling activity
- Submit materials that another teacher could use to implement the lesson
- Provide a one-page reflection on the activity, which may include:
- Suggested class size and level
- Prerequisite knowledge for students
- Insights into what worked well and potential adjustments for improved outcomes
- Agree that SIAM can share materials, pictures, or quotes about the project
Awardees will receive $500 upfront to develop and implement the activity, with the remaining $250 awarded upon submission of the required deliverables.
A review committee will evaluate applications based on the clarity of the mathematical modeling learning objectives, feasibility for the class size and level, likelihood of adoption by other teachers, and overall engagement of the activity for students.
IA-NCSM is an Iowa affiliate of the National Council of Supervisors of Mathematics, the professional organization for mathematics leaders and supervisors of any variety.
IA-NCSM is excited to announce that its professional learning series is titled "Figuring Out Fluency in Mathematics Teaching and Learning," aligns with the newly revised Iowa Academic Standards for Mathematics.
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The next meeting will be held on Wednesday, April 9, from 4:15-5:00 pm. Additional dates are May 14.
New members can sign up here: Sign-up
Books: If you already have the book, IA-NCSM asks that you not take one so others can join in as well. If you need a copy, please sign up here.
April Pforts, K-12 Mathematics Consultant, Iowa Department of Education will lead this.https://sites.google.com/view/ia-ncsm/home
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 Join ICTM for a free special screening of Counted Out, an engaging and eye-opening look at how math shapes the world around us in surprising ways! Click here to watch the trailer:
Date: Tuesday, April 8
Time: 6:00–8:00 PM (showing starts promptly at 6:15 PM)
Location: Indian Hills Junior High Auditorium at 9401 Indian Hills Drive, Clive, Iowa 50325
From the news we see to the jobs we land, math is everywhere—yet most of us don’t even realize it. Through fascinating stories, expert insights, and real-world examples, Counted Out explores how understanding math can open doors, spark curiosity, and even empower us to shape the future.
Come enjoy an inspiring film, great company, and a fresh perspective on the power of math. Don’t miss out—see you there!
Any questions? Email Tamara, ICTM President-Elect, at ICTMPres@gmail.com.
The Iowa Council of Teachers of Mathematics (ICTM) is excited to announce a professional development opportunity titled "Figuring Out Fluency: Beyond Facts and Algorithms." This three-part workshop series is designed to deepen educators' understanding of mathematical fluency beyond basic facts and algorithms.
Workshop Details
Dates & Times:
Session 1: April 22, 2025, from 4:00 PM to 5:15 PM (CDT)
Session 2: April 29, 2025, from 4:00 PM to 5:15 PM (CDT)
Session 3: May 13, 2025, from 4:00 PM to 5:15 PM (CDT)
Format: Virtual sessions via Zoom (links will be sent to registrants)
About the Workshop:
Fluency in mathematics encompasses more than just memorization; it involves a comprehensive understanding and the ability to apply concepts effectively. This series will delve into the core aspects of fluency, providing educators with practical strategies to enhance their students' mathematical proficiency. Participants will explore methods for teaching, practicing, and assessing strategies that promote true fluency, complemented by ready-to-use classroom resources.
Additional Notes:
- Sessions will not be recorded; live participation is encouraged to gain the full benefit of the interactive components.
- Participants are encouraged to have the book "Figuring Out Fluency in Mathematics Teaching and Learning, Grades K-8: Moving Beyond Basic Facts and Memorization" to enhance the workshop experience.
Don't miss this opportunity to enrich your teaching practices and support your students in developing meaningful mathematical fluency.
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Educators, administrators, staff, and faculty—join us for a powerful two-day convening designed to connect K-12 and higher education professionals who are passionate about teaching and learning.
Hosted at the University of Iowa, this free conference brings together stakeholders from both educational levels to share ideas, challenges, research, and practices that support effective learning.
More Information here.
Dates: Friday, April 25 & Saturday, April 26
Location: Kirkwood Regional Center at the University of Iowa (Coralville)
Cost: Free
Meals Provided: Friday dinner, Saturday breakfast & lunch
Whether you’re in K-12 or higher ed, this is a fantastic opportunity to collaborate across systems and learn from one another. Please share widely with your networks!
Questions? Contact Mark McDermott at mark-a-mcdermott@uiowa.edu
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 The National Council of Teachers of English (NCTE) and the National Council of Teachers of Mathematics (NCTM) are thrilled to announce the second annual Joint Conference on Elementary Literacy and Mathematics, taking place from June 16–18, 2025, in Chicago, Illinois.
Join us at the Iowa Events Center in Des Moines for two days of powerful professional learning at Teaching for Impact: Training for All Educators Supporting Learners with Disabilities. This no-cost event is designed for educators, administrators, early childhood providers, AEA professionals, and higher ed faculty working with learners with disabilities from birth through age 21.
Teaching for Impact flier
Topics include:
- Academics
- College and career readiness
- Early childhood
- School-based behavioral health
- Support for student success
New this year: Leading for Impact, a parallel workshop, is explicitly tailored for district and building administrators supporting special education services.
Date: June 5–6, 2025
Location: Iowa Events Center, Des Moines
Cost: Free
Register by May 21, 2025
For questions, contact Nancy Hunt at nancy.hunt@iowa.gov.
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Miss the Webinar with Pam Harris? You Can Still Catch It!
Educators recently had the chance to learn with Pam Harris, renowned mathematics educator and author of Foundations for Strategies Small Group Lessons, during the engaging webinar:
How to Develop Foundations for Math Strategies Through Critical Thinking.
Pam explored a powerful approach to building foundational math strategies—using purposeful ambiguity in mathematical models to spark critical thinking. She shared practical examples that help students analyze the reasoning behind strategies before being expected to use them, empowering them to become flexible, confident problem solvers who can choose, adapt, and justify their mathematical thinking.
Perfect for K–5 teachers, coaches, principals, and administrators
Here are some more Webinars from Pam Harris and John SanGiovanni
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 When so much of the conversation about education is focused on what’s broken, it can be hard to find solutions to chart a path forward. TNTP’s webinar series, Opportunity in Action, explores groundbreaking research, innovative programs, and real-world solutions that are making a difference for students. Convening experts from organizations across the field and in other sectors, TNTP spotlights promising practices and opportunities that align with and catalyze student success in school and beyond.
Resources from webinar:
April Pforts
K-12 Mathematics Consultant
Learner Strategies and Supports
Iowa Department of Education
Grimes State Office Building
515-314-6243
april.pforts@iowa.gov
Christi Donald
K-12 Mathematics Consultant
Learner Strategies and Supports
Iowa Department of Education
Grimes State Office Building
515-238-4715
christi.donald@iowa.gov
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