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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.
The Flexibility Formula professional learning will continue next year, focusing on building strong foundations in mathematics instruction through flexible, educator-centered learning. The core learning includes approximately 10 hours of content, with pathways designed for PK–2nd grade, 3rd-6th grades, and a Coaches Edition.
Participants engage in a cycle with four modules: understanding early numeracy, observing students engaging in early numeracy, connecting early numeracy to other mathematical concepts and home, and experiencing early numeracy. This cycle supports both individual learning and implementation in real classrooms. The flexible structure includes asynchronous learning and opportunities to engage in deeper learning as a school community through individual reflection, professional learning community discussion questions and learning experiences.
The Iowa Department of Education mathematics team will be providing optional one hour virtual sessions for instructional leaders to support implementation of the Flexibility Formula. Commit to continuous growth in mathematics teaching by engaging with these opportunities.
One hour Zoom sessions for Instructional Leaders on the second Tuesday of each month from 8:30 am - 9:30 am.
September 8, 2026
October 13, 2026
November 10, 2026
December 8, 2026
January 12, 2027
February 9, 2027
March 9, 2027
April 13, 2026
May 11, 2027
For questions, contact April Pforts at april.pforts@iowa.gov.
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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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 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
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).
Keynote speaker Christina Tondevold
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: https://www.instagram.com/iowamathteach/
X (formerly Twitter): @IowaMathTeach
Bluesky: iowamathteach.bsky.social
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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.
2026 Marilyn Zweng First Year Teacher Grant Applications are due by August 20.
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Know a fabulous mathematics educator in Iowa? Nominate them for one of our awards! Nominations are accepted throughout the year and awards are presented at our annual conference. Visit the ICTM website for more information. |
 Save the date for the Iowa STEM Summit on Friday, November 6, at the Iowa Events Center in Des Moines.
This event, presented by the Iowa Governor’s STEM Advisory Council at the Iowa Department of Education, brings together hundreds of Iowans from education, business and industry, nonprofits, trade organizations, elected officials and students to amplify the conversation about solutions for connecting education and the workforce.
Proposals are being accepted through July 29 for presentations, panelists and roundtable discussions across all STEM disciplines and content areas. Proposals incorporating student voices are especially encouraged.
If you have insights to share, please submit your proposal!
Questions can be directed to Summit@iowastem.org.
Explore exciting career pathways in data, risk, and analytics at Actuarial Cyence Day on November 5 in Ames. This event connects students and educators with Iowa State faculty and industry professionals to learn more about actuarial science and statistics majors.
Participants will gain insight into high-demand careers, competitive salaries, and opportunities for networking with professionals. Travel grant support may be available for eligible groups.
Contact Rahul Parsa to learn more and express interest in attending.
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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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