Beyond the Data: Actions Speak Louder Than Numbers

The latest National Assessment of Educational Progress (NAEP) results in mathematics should alarm us all and spur urgent action — particularly as recent research shows that math scores are closely tied to salary at age 30 for children of all backgrounds. Yesterday’s release of the Nation's Report Card highlights significant and ongoing challenges in student math achievement — challenges that must be addressed by states, districts, and schools to prepare students for the workforce demands of today and tomorrow. 

Together, we recommend six key strategies, backed by research and practice:

• Expand access to high-quality instructional materials aligned to rigorous standards.
• Provide educators with high-quality professional learning focused on effectively using instructional materials in the classroom.
• Increase instructional time by extending learning opportunities before, during, and after the school day.
• Automatically enroll students into advanced math courses based on objective assessment results or other data.
• Hold teacher preparation programs accountable for equipping teachers with the skills and content needed to succeed in math instruction. 
• Leverage math coaches at the school or district level to work closely with teachers to improve classroom practice and, ultimately, student math achievement.