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The Iowa Department of Education will release new implementation support aligned with the Math Counts Act (House File 784) to assist districts in strengthening mathematics instruction for K–6 students.
These resources are designed to support the local implementation of a Multi-Tiered System of Supports (MTSS), ensuring that all students receive timely, targeted, and standards-aligned instruction.
Resources will be available on the Department’s Mathematics webpage. For questions, please contact Christi Donald at christi.donald@iowa.gov or April Pforts at april.pforts@iowa.gov.
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The Iowa Department of Education is excited to announce an upcoming professional learning opportunity aligned with the goals of House File 784 (HF 784), which prioritizes high-quality instruction in early numeracy: Build Math Minds -- The Flexibility Formula.
This professional learning series is designed to strengthen mathematics instruction by building fluency and deepening conceptual understanding among educators. Developed by nationally recognized mathematics educator Christina Tondevold, The Flexibility Formula supports teachers in helping all students develop a strong foundation in number sense.
What to Expect:
A blend of synchronous (via Zoom) and asynchronous (on-demand) learning
A focus on research-based strategies that build number sense, fluency, and conceptual understanding in students
Designed to support educators in grades K-6
Who: Iowa educators
When: Launching soon - schedule and registration details will be shared in the coming weeks
Format: Virtual (synchronous and asynchronous sessions)
This professional learning opportunity is part of our ongoing commitment to ensuring that all Iowa students develop strong mathematical foundations. Stay tuned for more details about how to register and participate. Additional support will be provided for schools identified for comprehensive support.
Please have your district’s designated point of contact complete this registration form. For any questions, contact April Pforts at april.pforts@iowa.gov.
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To support early identification and targeted instruction, the Iowa Department of Education has published a vetted list of mathematics screening and progress monitoring tools for students in grades K–6. These tools meet the technical requirements outlined in House File 784 and are designed to support local implementation of MTSS. Beginning in the 2025–26 school year, all districts must administer an approved screener three times annually and use an approved tool for progress monitoring.
For any questions, contact Christi Donald at christi.donald@iowa.gov.
House File 784 requires the development of a personalized mathematics plan for any K–6 student identified as “persistently at risk” in mathematics. The Department has developed a statewide template and technical assistance document to support educators in designing targeted, data-informed plans that address the individual needs of students. Plans should include clear instructional goals, research-based strategies, and a progress monitoring system. Plans also ensure ongoing communication with families and provide scaffolds to maintain access to grade-level content.
For any questions, contact Christi Donald at christi.donald@iowa.gov.
By House File 784, the Iowa Department of Education developed the Iowa Comprehensive State Mathematics Plan (CSMP) to increase mathematics proficiency statewide. The Executive Summary highlights Year 1 priorities and outlines the key goals, action steps, and outcomes that will guide implementation beginning in the 2025–26 school year. The plan outlines a multi-year vision focused on four key goals: strengthening universal instruction, improving interventions, supporting teacher preparation, and expanding stakeholder engagement. The CSMP serves as a roadmap for continuous improvement in mathematics education and provides aligned resources, actions, and timelines for schools, AEAs, and educator preparation programs.
 2025 United States Conference on Teaching Statistics
Thursday July 17th - Saturday July 19th
Pre-conference workshops begins on Tuesday, July 15th
Liberal Arts Statistics Symposium on Wednesday, July 16th
Research Satellite begins Wednesday evening, July 16th
Iowa State University Memorial Union
2229 Lincoln Way
Ames, IA 50014
USA
More Information
 Building Thinking Classrooms Workshops: Substitutes and issue? Wanted to send the whole team, but couldn't in February. Here is your chance!
Chase Orton is returning, but hurry as space is filling up.
August 6, 2025 - Just Getting Started and August 7, 20205-Let's Take it a Step Further.
Join Iowa State University faculty and professional actuaries on the Iowa State University campus for a fun and informative look at our actuarial science and statistics majors and the rewarding career options awaiting your students after graduation.
Email Rahul Parsa raparsa@iastate.edu to express your interest in participating and to determine if your class is eligible for a travel grant for the event.
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Christi Donald
K-12 Mathematics Consultant
Academics and Learner Supports
Iowa Department of Education
Grimes State Office Building
515-419-9012
christi.donald@iowa.gov
April Pforts
K-12 Mathematics Consultant
Academics and Learner Supports
Iowa Department of Education
Grimes State Office Building
515-314-6243
april.pforts@iowa.gov
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