About the Webinar:
This presentation equipped participants with best practices for providing mathematics interventions for students identified with substantial deficiencies in early mathematics skills in Voluntary Prekindergarten Educational Programs (VPK) and Grades K-4. Participants also learned about the latest resources available from the Department to support teachers, parents, and students in mathematics.
Unlocking Success: B.E.S.T. Practices for Mathematics Interventions
Presenter:
- Courtney Starling, Director, Office of Mathematics and Sciences, Florida Department of Education, Bureau of Standards and Instructional
- Barbie Hartsfield, K-5 Mathematics Specialist, Office of Mathematics and Sciences, Florida Department of Education, Bureau of Standards and Instructional
Date/Time: November 20, 2024
Conference: 2024 FL Charter School Conference
View The Recording:
Session Summary
This session, presented by Courtney Starling and Barbie Hartsfield from the Florida Department of Education's Office of Mathematics and Sciences, provides valuable insights into best practices for supporting students with mathematics deficiencies.
The presenters begin by exploring the legal framework for mathematics interventions, focusing on House Bill 7039 and Senate Bill 7004. These bills outline the requirements for identifying and supporting students with substantial deficiencies in mathematics, including those with dyscalculia.
The session then delves into the specifics of providing effective interventions. The presenters emphasize that interventions should be explicit and systematic, tailored to the student's specific needs, and delivered by a highly qualified teacher or trained tutor.
A key takeaway is the importance of ongoing monitoring and data analysis to inform instructional decisions. The presenters stress the need to use multiple data points, including diagnostic, formative, and summative assessments, to track student progress and adjust interventions accordingly.
The session also highlights the importance of parental communication and collaboration. Schools are required to notify parents immediately when a student is identified with a substantial deficiency and provide them with a progress monitoring plan that outlines the interventions and supports being provided.
The presentation concludes with a discussion of available resources, including a forthcoming portal with teacher and parent resources, and a call for ongoing feedback and collaboration between schools and the Department of Education. This session provides practical guidance and valuable insights for educators seeking to improve mathematics outcomes for all students.