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 The Iowa Department of Education provides districts and AEAs leadership and technical assistance to strengthen mathematics instruction for students with the most significant cognitive disabilities. Jennifer Denne, Education Program Consultant for Alternate Assessment, supports implementation of the Dynamic Learning Maps Alternate Assessment and the Early Math Alternate Screener, launching in fall 2026. Tiffiny Poage, Education Program Consultant for Students with Significant Cognitive Disabilities, provides guidance on evidence-based specially designed instruction aligned to the Iowa Essential Elements.
Supports and technical assistance include application of Iowa's Specially Designed Instruction Framework (SDI) for students with Significant Cognitive Disabilities and the Dynamic Learning Maps Professional Learning Modules focused on effective instruction in mathematics for students participating in alternate assessment. Modules focus on strengthening teacher instruction to assist students in demonstrating increasingly complex understanding of number sense, complex spatial reasoning, geometric principles and making productive use of algebra and functions. Professional learning opportunities supporting Iowa's Specially Designed Instruction Framework (SDI Framework) in Mathematics will be available in the future.
For questions around mathematics and the alternate assessments, contact Jennifer Denne at jennifer.denne@iowa.gov or (515)326-5332. For questions around mathematics instruction contact Tiffiny Poage at tiffiny.poage@iowa.gov or (515) 250-2685.
Looking for past updates? Previous Mathematics Update newsletters are available and provide access to resources, professional learning opportunities, and important announcements shared throughout the year. These newsletters can be a helpful way to revisit key information and stay connected to ongoing mathematics work across the state. Be sure to scroll down on the page.
Every year, we celebrate and spotlight the essential and diverse ways that mathematics and statistics help shape our world. During this time, we encourage you to participate and find ways to engage your students, staff, and communities in activities that highlight the many ways math and statistics impact our daily lives. Here are a variety of ways you can celebrate and promote the importance of these fields:
- Explore real-world applications: Investigate how math and statistics are used in business and marketing, sports analytics, environmental science, technology, and more.
- Communicate mathematical and statistical facts: Did you know ‘jiffy’ is an actual unit of time, representing 1/100th of a second? Share interesting facts, milestones, quotes, puzzles.
- Learn about past and present mathematicians and statisticians: Celebrate achievements from famous figures such as Ada Lovelace, David Blackwell, Maryam Mirzakhani, and many more.
- Show math and statistics in everyday life: Make connections while shopping, cooking, gaming, and more to build awareness for learners of all ages.
- Partake in Puzzles: Engage in fun and challenging puzzles such as sudoku, logic problems, and brainteasers.
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Mathematics Professional Development for Grades K–6
The Iowa Department of Education is providing professional learning aligned with the goals of House File 784 (HF 784), which prioritizes high-quality instruction in early numeracy at no cost for all educators in grades K–6. Build Math Minds -- The Flexibility Formula provides an overview of the components of professional learning, including asynchronous modules and opportunities for digging deeper in synchronous virtual sessions.
This professional learning series is designed to strengthen mathematics instruction by building fluency and deepening educators' conceptual understanding. Developed by nationally recognized mathematics educator Christina Tondevold, The Flexibility Formula supports teachers in helping all students develop a strong foundation in number sense.
This professional learning opportunity is part of our ongoing commitment to ensuring that all Iowa students develop strong mathematical foundations. Additional support will be provided for schools identified for comprehensive support.
For any questions, contact April Pforts at april.pforts@iowa.gov.
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 The Iowa Department of Education has approved AEA professional learning opportunities for 2026–27 that are aligned with Iowa’s priorities. These support educators in enhancing instruction, student outcomes, and access for all students.
In mathematics, opportunities focus on evidence-based practices that build students' understanding, including productive mathematics discussions, effective teaching practices, and the development of numerical fluency. Additional learning supports educators in implementing high-quality instructional materials, strengthening MTSS systems, and enhancing specially designed instruction for students with disabilities
New 2026-2027
- 5 Practices for Orchestrating Productive Mathematics Discussions
- Building Fact Fluency by Graham Fletcher
- Number Talks
Educators should explore these offerings to support continuous improvement and align professional learning with local goals and student needs.
Are you a district math leader or instructional coach looking to collaborate, share ideas, and learn with others across Iowa? The Math Instructional Coach Network is the place for you!
This virtual network meets from 8:30 –9:30 a.m. on the second Monday of each month to discuss timely topics and practical strategies related to the Math Counts Act and effective math leadership.
Upcoming Topics:
Apr. 13: Math Counts Bill: Act
May 11: Dr. Matt Larson: Navigating the False Dichotomies of Math Education
Bring your questions, ideas, and insights to share!
Questions? Contact Kristin Grotewold (kgrotewold@waukeeschools.org) or Tamara Bane (tbane@winterset.k12.ia.us).
This is made available through a collaboration of the Iowa Council of Teacher of Mathematics (ICTM) and the Iowa Affiliate of the National Council of Supervisors of Mathematics (IA-NCSM).
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As we approach the 25th anniversary of 9/11, 9/11 Day - the nonprofit that leads the federally recognized September 11 National Day of Service and Remembrance - is mobilizing communities nationwide to participate in the largest day of service in U.S. history. This week, contacts from 9/11 Day provided information at NGA’s meeting for Governors’ staff members. Additional information regarding opportunities to support participation at the school, campus, and community level follow:
Grant Opportunities (Apply by April 17)
- Campus Grants – for colleges, universities, and affiliated organizations
- Youth Service Grants – for nonprofit and community-based youth- serving organizations
- K–12 School Grants – for public, private, and charter schools
Student Leadership & Scholarship Opportunity (Register by June 15)
- Student Service Leaders – rising high school seniors design and lead a 9/11 Day service project; participants are eligible to apply for one of 20 $5,000 scholarships
Governors’ offices can share these opportunities with relevant agencies, school systems, and nonprofit and community partners in their states or territories.
Learn more about the grants and apply here. Learn more about the student program here.
Contact: Tiffany Waddell (twaddell@nga.org; 202-624-7801)
The Iowa Department of Education, in partnership with MISIC, is offering a full-day professional learning opportunity focused on strengthening mathematics instruction for every learner. This session will explore how high-quality Tier 1 instruction and effective Tier 2/3 supports work together to maintain high expectations while ensuring access for all students. Participants will engage in meaningful mathematics, examine what makes instruction high-quality, and learn practical, evidence-based strategies to support both whole-group and targeted small group instruction.
Math for Every Learner: Balancing Rigorous Instruction with Tiered Support
Monday, April 27, 2026
9:00 a.m. – 3:00 p.m. (registration opens at 8:30 a.m.)
City Church, Ames
This session is designed for educators looking to deepen their understanding of rigorous mathematics instruction and strengthen support systems across tiers.
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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. Your recommendations will identify educators who will be of great value to your community and state because of their expertise.
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 a minimum of five, but not more than 18 years of experience in education. Members of this Talent Pool are typically full-time, building-level personnel whose primary function is to 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. Of special interest are educators who are outstanding and have not received other state or national recognition.
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. Recommendations for this teacher talent pool will be open from now until April 30th. Please contact Molly McConnell (molly.mcconnell@iowa.gov) with any questions.
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Transform your approach to mathematics instruction for multilingual learners!
This 100% self-paced online course from Iowa State University helps K–12 teachers apply research-based strategies to meet the diverse linguistic and cultural needs of students in math classrooms. Participants explore topics such as culturally sustaining pedagogy, mathematical discussion, translanguaging, and family engagement.
Course Highlights:
Free online textbook
Licensure Renewal (LR) credit available — 1 to 3 credits ($85/credit)
Free lesson plans upon completion
Registration Closes: May 2026
Learn more or enroll: go.iastate.edu/LSXWVY
Contact: Dr. Jiyeong Yi – jjiyeongi@iastate.edu
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ICTM and IA-NCSM are proud to host Dr. Matt Larson—former NCTM President and NCTM Lifetime Achievement Award recipient—for a special session titled Navigating the False Dichotomies of Math Education.
In this session, Dr. Larson will explore common “either/or” tensions in mathematics education—such as direct instruction vs. inquiry, skills vs. concepts, and teacher-directed vs. student-centered—and how educators and leaders can move beyond them to support both strong learning and positive mathematical identities for every student.
The session will take place on Monday, May 11, from 8:30–9:30 a.m. during the Math Instructional Coach Network. This session will not be recorded, so be sure to mark your calendar. No registration is required.
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Teaching and learning grants are available this spring through the Iowa Council of Teachers of Mathematics. ICTM members may request up to $750 to support professional learning or projects that promote access and equity for all students, or that are aligned with the Iowa Academic Standards for Mathematical Content and Practice Standards or the 8 Effective Teaching Practices.
This is a great opportunity to take a course, purchase classroom tools, or try out new instructional materials. Applications are accepted on a rolling basis and awarded quarterly, with up to $6,000 distributed each calendar year.
Applications for this cycle are due by June 30 and will be reviewed in early July.
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Mark your calendars for the Iowa Council of Teachers of Mathematics (ICTM) 60th Conference, October 19–20, 2026, for an unforgettable two-day professional learning experience!
Monday, October 19:
Join a full-day workshop with your choice of Graham Fletcher (elementary focus) or Pam Harris (secondary focus).
Tuesday, October 20:
Attend the ICTM Fall Conference, featuring keynote speaker Christina Tondevold, along with engaging sessions from Graham Fletcher, Pam Harris and Fawn Nguyen.
Iowa’s premier mathematics education event—packed with inspiration, collaboration, and classroom-ready strategies for every grade level.
Save the date and don’t miss out! Be sure to check out ICTM for other happenings.
Stay Connected: follow ICTM on social media for updates, resources, and event highlights!
Facebook: facebook.com/iowamath
Instagram: @iowamathteach
X (formerly Twitter): @IowaMathTeach
Bluesky: iowamathteach.bsky.social
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As you are planning for next year, be sure to add the following dates to your calendar for the universal screening of students in at least Kindergarten through 6th grade. More information can be found in the Panorama Screening Windows Dates article.
Fall Window: August 31, 2026 - October 2, 2026
Winter Window: January 4, 2027 - February 5, 2027
Spring Window: April 19, 2027 - May 28, 2027
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What are you doing to promote mathematics?
Are you utilizing tools to design instruction, assess learning, or create professional learning opportunities to support all students in meeting the expectations of the Iowa Academic Standards of Mathematics?
We value your work and would love to hear about your successes. Share your work and celebrations!!!
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Have new educators (teachers, coaches, administrators) joined your district/school? Help them sign up for the Mathematics Update newsletter!
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