MATH

First in Mathematics Consortium (FiMC)

Enabling all students to succeed in algebra is a major challenge for our schools. To focus on a systems approach to achieving this goal, in 2007 we launched a targeted research and development effort with nine districts selected from the Silicon Valley Mathematics Initiative member districts.

FiMC provides professional development and technical support for key role groups from each of the districts - superintendents and curriculum & instruction leaders, principals, coaches, and math teachers. District teams come together periodically to report progress, discuss challenges, and plan next steps. Middle school and K-8 principals participate in professional development sessions during the year. The project supports middle school teachers in improving their content knowledge and instructional strategies for teaching algebra. Math coaches also participate in ongoing professional development sessions focused on content, pedagogy, and coaching strategies with teacher teams. A major focus is the formation of professional learning communities in middle school math departments.


The Noyce Foundation's support of the First in Mathematics Consortium concluded on June 30, 2009. When the effectiveness of the program is verified by student performance data, we will disseminate the program elements and its findings.