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The Portland Public Schools is implementing the University of Chicago School Mathematics Project as a new way of teaching math to all students in grades six through eight.

“This program will help us boost student achievement and it will standardize what students learn at all three Portland middle schools,” said David Galin, the district’s chief academic officer.  “We’re working toward the goal of having most students master Algebra I by the end of eighth grade.”

The University of Chicago School Mathematics Project provides books and online resources for each grade level, including “Personal Tutor” videos.   Students who are able to advance more quickly than the class as a whole may do so, and those who require extra help will receive it.

The Portland Public Schools provided middle school math teachers with two full days of training in the new program.  Special education teachers and English as a Second Language teachers who are involved in the math program also received training.  Additional training will be provided throughout the year.  The district used $140,000 in federal grant funds to pay for the program and training. 

“Our teachers will learn together and they will share their successes and challenges,” said Dan Chuhta, the district’s Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM) coordinator.  “They will have the support of an implementation coach, Louise Moses.”

Parent information sessions about the new math program will be held this fall at each middle school.