Seaford, Del. - Global education leader Houghton Mifflin Harcourt (HMH) today highlighted the successful implementation of its popular Math in Focus: Singapore Math program in Seaford, Del. Dedicated to excellence in instruction and to college and career-readiness for all students, Seaford School District launched a rigorous implementation process this fall with a pilot program involving nearly 450 students in grades K-5 at Frederick Douglass Elementary School.
Math in Focus: Singapore Math by Marshall Cavendish is based on the popular framework developed by the Singapore Ministry of Education. Drawing on best practices from around the world, the proven K-8 math curriculum focuses on problem solving by using a concrete-to-symbolic-to-visual approach, giving learners a more comprehensive understanding of critical math topics that align with the Common Core State Standards.
“As we navigate the new demands of the Common Core State Standards and prepare our young learners for future success, we have to be proactive and think differently about how we engage and challenge our students with rigorous curriculum,” said Seaford Superintendent Dr. Shawn Joseph. “Math in Focus is helping us raise the bar and embrace new pathways to student growth.”
Math in Focus is further distinguished by its combination of specialized curriculum and robust professional development training and tools. To support implementation, education leaders in Seaford have partnered with HMH and the Delaware Foundation of Math and Science on professional development programs, including summer training, model lessons, grade-level specific trainings, and ongoing professional community meetings offering teachers essential opportunities to discuss best practices and approach. Success at Frederick Douglass will inform implementation district-wide.
“Implementing new curriculum can be a challenge, but we have received an overwhelmingly positive response to Math in Focus, thanks in large part to HMH’s exceptional professional development path and to our dedicated staff,” said Denise Jacono, Principal at Frederick Douglass Elementary School. “Teachers have embraced the program and our students are increasingly enthusiastic about math class. I’m also thrilled that with Math in Focus, students who have struggled in the past with math concepts are receiving increased support and achieving new levels of success.”
“Seaford’s commitment to excellence displays the power of a holistic approach to transforming learning,” said Mary Cullinane, Chief Content Officer and EVP, Corporate Affairs at HMH. “By embracing an innovative teaching method and leveraging the strength of a unified learning community – teachers, students and content providers – the district is impacting the classroom experience and student performance by putting people first and providing both educators and students the tools they need to thrive. We look forward to continuing to work together and to seeing Seaford students continue to grow.”
To learn more about Math in Focus: Singapore Math, click here. To learn more about Seaford Schools, please visit: www.seafordbluejays.org