Tucson, AZ – June 14, 2018— Illustrative Mathematics(IM) today announced the launch of its IM Certification™ program, which trains qualified mathematics educators to deliver scalable, high-quality, expert-developed professional learning experiences that support adoptions of the acclaimed Illustrative Mathematics curriculum.
IM Certified Facilitatorslead school and district PD on IM’s behalf, supporting districts that have adopted the organization’s acclaimed middle school curriculum, Illustrative Mathematics 6–8 Math.
“Our curricula are research-based, expert-authored, standards-aligned, and meet stringent quality benchmarks,” says Illustrative Mathematics CEO, Lisa O’Masta. “Our IM Certification program is held to the same high standards as our curriculum, and it reflects the latest research on best practices for supporting professional learning for mathematics educators.”
In response to increased district demand for IM-led professional development, the nonprofit has launched a competitive certification program to discover and train future facilitators. The first cohort of facilitators-in-training will be announced in July 2018.
“Teachers using IM’s high-quality instructional materials need structured, long-term support for improving instruction and internalizing the protocols they need to continue their learning, independently and in collaboration with their peers,” says Katie Martin, lead secondary math teacher for New Hanover County Schools in Wilmington, North Carolina. “We consider a facilitator’s 'IM Certified' stamp shorthand for quality and expertise, both in mathematics and in delivering to teachers and coaches the very best professional learning experiences.”
“Switching to problem-based instruction requires a shift in teaching practice for many teachers. Even when schools adopt a coherent, well-aligned curriculum, they are often missing job-embedded professional learning supports,” says IM founder Dr. Bill McCallum. “To have an impact mathematics teaching and learning at scale and to close the achievement gap, teachers need access to both high-quality curriculum materials and complementary professional learning. We are excited to welcome into the IM fold this cohort of talented educators who will deepen the impact of our curriculum on students and teachers.”
About Illustrative Mathematics
Illustrative Mathematics is a nonprofit organization dedicated to creating a world where learners know, use, and enjoy mathematics. We develop and deliver core mathematics curriculum along with deeply integrated professional learning experiences that ensure students receive engaging, high-quality mathematics instruction. Learn more at www.illustrativemathematics.org.
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