First, it's National Toilet Paper Day! So we talk about how we will celebrate... 

Then, what happens when a school district shifts from traditional math instruction to collaborative learning? Holly McCarty, Coordinator of Curriculum Instruction at Shawnee Mission School District in Kansas, takes us behind the scenes of their successful CPM implementation journey.

When Holly joined Shawnee Mission—a district serving 25,000 students across five high schools, five middle schools, and 34 elementary schools—she brought a vision for transforming mathematics instruction. Her goal was clear: move away from passive note-taking toward active learning environments where students develop lasting understanding through collaboration and problem-solving.

The implementation story offers valuable insights for any district considering curriculum change. Rather than mandating adoption across all classrooms simultaneously, Holly invited teacher teams who were ready and willing to pioneer the approach. This organic strategy created momentum as educators across all five high schools voluntarily chose to implement CPM with their Integrated Math courses.

What makes this story particularly compelling are the results. Holly shares a powerful anecdote about a high school student who, at the end of a Friday afternoon class, asked, "Can we do this again sometime? I was really engaged in what we were doing." Students have recognized the value of collaborative learning, with one noting that working together in teams "is just like real life."

Teachers report feeling more energized teaching with CPM than with traditional methods. The curriculum provides comprehensive resources to implement research-based instructional strategies without the exhausting hunt for quality materials that often burns educators out.

Whether you're a mathematics leader considering curriculum changes, a teacher curious about collaborative learning approaches, or an administrator supporting instructional shifts, this episode offers practical wisdom about implementation, professional development, and creating classrooms where both students and teachers thrive in their mathematical journey.

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The More Math for More People Podcast is produced by CPM Educational Program.
Learn more at CPM.org
X: @cpmmath
Facebook: CPMEducationalProgram
Email: [email protected]

First, we discuss National Couscous Day (not to be confused with National Quinoa Day...). Please read that out loud a few times so that you can join in our fun and delight in saying the word "couscous"!

Then, Rafael Del Castillo joins the More Math for More People podcast to share his fascinating journey from CPM math teacher to CPM Educational Program's Executive Director. His story reveals how a classroom transformation sparked an entire leadership philosophy.

After moving from Miami to Seattle and switching from high school to middle school teaching, Rafael discovered his traditional methods weren't working. Through CPM, he found a revolutionary approach that transformed not just his classroom but his entire concept of leadership. "When you deploy a CPM pedagogy, you really share your power as a teacher," Rafael explains, describing how this collaborative model led him to adopt servant leadership principles that have guided his career.

The parallels between effective classrooms and effective organizations are striking. Just as CPM teachers distribute authority and facilitate rather than dictate, Rafael applies these same principles in leading. His approach focuses on "listening to learn, not listening to respond" – developing the talents of everyone around him while maintaining a strategic vision.

Today's educational landscape demands urgent evolution. The merging of curriculum development organizations with educational technology groups signals a fundamental shift in how we approach teaching and learning. While students may be comfortable using technology, Rafael cautions they remain "digital naives" who need guidance on responsible use. As education and technology continue their rapid integration, CPM's collaborative principles become increasingly relevant.

Rafael's journey demonstrates how pedagogical philosophies can transform leadership across various contexts. His story reminds us that whether in classrooms or boardrooms, the most effective leaders are those who empower others while maintaining a clear strategic vision. Listen now to discover how these principles might transform your own approach to leadership and learning.

Send Joel and Misty a message!

The More Math for More People Podcast is produced by CPM Educational Program.
Learn more at CPM.org
X: @cpmmath
Facebook: CPMEducationalProgram
Email: [email protected]

Latrenda Knighten, current president of the National Council of Teachers of Mathematics (NCTM), joins us for the second part of our illuminating conversation on professional collaboration and growth in mathematics education.

We begin with a playful discussion of Pi Approximation Day (July 22nd or 22/7). What will you do to celebrate?

Then part two of our conversation – a profound exploration of professional identity and community in teaching. Knighten draws from her personal journey to illustrate how early exposure to professional networks transformed her teaching practice and accelerated her growth as an educator.

"Teaching can be a career where a lot of times you work in isolation," Knighten observes, highlighting how this isolation creates barriers to professional development. She makes a compelling case for fostering environments where teachers feel comfortable asking questions, sharing challenges, and collaborating across grade levels. These "vertical discussions" prove particularly valuable, allowing educators to understand mathematical progressions more deeply than single-grade expertise permits.

For teachers struggling to find supportive communities, Knighten offers practical strategies—from leveraging virtual platforms to building informal networks outside school hours. "There is no excuse for not having someone to collaborate with," she emphasizes, pointing to technological tools that make connection possible regardless of geographic limitations.

The conversation culminates with Knighten's passionate reminder that effective mathematics teaching practices—student engagement, encouraging questioning, problem-solving, critical thinking—have been validated by decades of research. "Let's stick with what we know is good and effective and let's just build on that," she urges, connecting these approaches to the skills most valued in today's workforce.

Whether you're new to teaching mathematics or a veteran educator, this episode offers invaluable insights into creating professional communities that sustain and enhance your practice. Listen now to discover how breaking free from classroom isolation can transform both your teaching experience and your students' learning outcomes!

You can connect with Latrenda Knighton on X (@LatrendaK)

Send Joel and Misty a message!

The More Math for More People Podcast is produced by CPM Educational Program.
Learn more at CPM.org
X: @cpmmath
Facebook: CPMEducationalProgram
Email: [email protected]

First, we start off with National Pet Safety Day. How will you celebrate? Well, if you want to get a Save our Pets sticker? You could go here.

Then, what does it take to lead one of the the largest mathematics education organization in the world? Latrenda Knighton, current president of the National Council of Teachers of Mathematics (NCTM), opens up about her journey from kindergarten teacher to mathematics education leader in part one of this insightful conversation.

Drawing from over three decades in education, Latrenda shares how her early experiences with professional organizations shaped her approach to leadership. "I started as an affiliate leader and member very early in my teaching career," she explains, highlighting how these connections provided support beyond what was available at the school level. Now as NCTM president, she's focused on strengthening these affiliate relationships while expanding professional development opportunities for educators everywhere.

The heart of Latrenda's mission revolves around three key priorities. First, supporting teachers through accessible professional learning opportunities beyond traditional conferences – including webinars, journals, and podcasts that meet educators where they are. Second, highlighting the critical importance of early mathematics education, which she champions through partnerships with early childhood organizations. And third, ensuring students across all grade levels engage in meaningful, sense-making mathematical experiences.

"An engaged student is a more productive student, is a more confident student," LaTrenda emphasizes, distinguishing between student engagement and mere entertainment. She advocates for mathematics instruction that helps students make connections between concepts and real-world applications, building on their existing knowledge while preparing them for future learning.

The episode also features Andy Peterson-Longmore introducing her Teacher Research Community project focused on bringing joy and fun back to high school mathematics classrooms without sacrificing rigor or content. Her work complements Latrenda's vision of mathematics education that empowers both teachers and students.

Tune in to this rich conversation about mathematics education leadership, and don't miss part two coming next week where we'll dive deeper into professional development and the future of mathematics teaching and learning.

You can connect with Latrenda through X (@LatrendaK). 

Send Joel and Misty a message!

The More Math for More People Podcast is produced by CPM Educational Program.
Learn more at CPM.org
X: @cpmmath
Facebook: CPMEducationalProgram
Email: [email protected]

Mathematics education never stands still. After a decade of classroom implementation, research advances, and teacher feedback, CPM Educational Program has reimagined their middle school curriculum for today's learning environments.

In this enlightening conversation with Tony Jones (Managing Editor) and Karen Wootton (Director of Curriculum Assessment), we explore how the third edition of CPM's Core Connections middle school courses brings cutting-edge teaching practices directly into mathematics classrooms. This isn't merely an update – it's a thoughtful integration of proven strategies that transform how students engage with mathematical concepts.

The new edition incorporates Building Thinking Classrooms principles through vertical non-permanent surfaces where students work collaboratively while standing, making their mathematical thinking visible to everyone. Daily randomized teams ensure students experience diverse perspectives, while streamlined one-day lesson structures maintain coherent mathematical storylines despite changing group dynamics.

Teachers will appreciate the addition of structured "door questions" to immediately engage students, brief "launches" that activate mathematical thinking, and reflection journals that deepen student understanding. Meanwhile, beloved problem contexts like the "jumping frogs of Calaveras County" and "algebra walk" remain intact, preserving what has made CPM distinctive while updating content to ensure all students see themselves reflected in the curriculum.

Beyond pedagogical enhancements, the team carefully analyzed and adjusted content alignment with current standards frameworks, rebalanced major and supporting work clusters, and completely refreshed the physical design with new illustrations, fonts, and spiral-bound teacher materials for improved usability.

Discover how this curriculum evolution honors what works while embracing what's next in mathematics education. Whether you're a current CPM teacher or simply curious about how curriculum can respond to research advances, this conversation offers valuable insights into thoughtful educational design.

Ready to explore how the third edition might transform your mathematics classroom? Visit support.cpm.org or check out the materials at CPM's booth at an upcoming mathematics conference.

Send Joel and Misty a message!

The More Math for More People Podcast is produced by CPM Educational Program.
Learn more at CPM.org
X: @cpmmath
Facebook: CPMEducationalProgram
Email: [email protected]

Summer has arrived, and with it comes refreshing iced tea, eaglet adventures, and exciting plans for the months ahead! We kick off with a spirited discussion about National Iced Tea Day, sharing our personal brewing preferences and debating the merits of sweet versus unsweet varieties. Remember those old commercials where people would fall backward into pools after a refreshing sip? We certainly do! (If you are too young (or old?) to remember them HERE!)

Our eagle-watching journey continues with an exciting update: Sunny has officially fledged! After weeks of practice flaps and hovering attempts, this brave eaglet took flight on June 2nd while Gizmo continues preparing for the big moment. We draw parallels between these fledgling birds and the human experience of leaving home, noting how Sunny still returns to the nest occasionally—not unlike college students coming home for weekends.

The heart of this episode features our Professional Learning Team sharing what they're most excited about for the upcoming academic year. From Bree's multilingual learner book study to Ernesto's enthusiasm for new Spanish translations of Inspiring Connections materials, the passion is palpable. Kathy Williams highlights the contemporary updates in Core Connections third edition, while others discuss summer learning events including the Building Thinking Classrooms Conference and the Academy of Best Practices for New Teachers.

Between national park adventures, camping trips, favorite band concerts, and our company-wide Terrific Team Building event in September, there's plenty to look forward to personally and professionally. What are you excited about this summer? Share your plans and join us on June 24th for our next episode celebrating International Fairy Day!

Send Joel and Misty a message!

The More Math for More People Podcast is produced by CPM Educational Program.
Learn more at CPM.org
X: @cpmmath
Facebook: CPMEducationalProgram
Email: [email protected]

Testing is over? What do YOU do to fill the last few days of school? We're watching eaglets!

The natural world offers endless fascination when we take time to observe it closely. This week, Joel and Misty share their current obsession with tracking the Big Bear Valley bald eagles through a live nest cam, discovering the remarkable process of how eaglets prepare for their first flight.

Starting with reflections on National Sunscreen Day, the hosts exchange memorable sunburn stories from childhood Disney trips to first date disasters, highlighting our evolving understanding of sun protection. What was once baby oil and reflectors has thankfully given way to proper UV protection, especially important for preserving tattoo art and preventing skin cancer.

The conversation shifts to the eaglets Gizmo and Sunny, whom Joel and Misty have watched transform from helpless gray fuzzy blobs to magnificent juveniles with impressive wingspans. Contrary to what many might assume, eagles don't simply jump off the nest and instinctively know how to fly. The hosts describe watching the eaglets practice by stretching their wings, performing vigorous flapping exercises while holding onto nest materials, and, perhaps, observing other birds in flight - all preparations for that momentous first flight that could happen any day now.

This eagle-watching journey sparked fascinating discussions about avian development, personal eagle encounters across the country, and lesser-known eagle facts (did you know female bald eagles are larger than males, and that these majestic birds make surprisingly squeaky calls?). The hosts share stories of magical eagle sightings from Minnesota to Kansas, reflecting on how eagle populations have made an impressive comeback in recent decades.

Want to join the eagle-watching community? Check the link HERE to access the Big Bear Valley eagle cam and witness this remarkable natural phenomenon for yourself. And don't forget to tune in on June 10th for our National Iced Tea Day episode, where we'll explore the history and preparation of this refreshing summer beverage!

Send Joel and Misty a message!

The More Math for More People Podcast is produced by CPM Educational Program.
Learn more at CPM.org
X: @cpmmath
Facebook: CPMEducationalProgram
Email: [email protected]

Welcome to Season 5 of the More Math for More People podcast!!!

What if high school mathematics could be truly transformed into something students find engaging, meaningful, and applicable to their lives? In this thought-provoking conversation with mathematics education experts Kris Cunningham and Kristi Martin, we dive deep into the possibilities presented in the NCTM publication "High School Mathematics Reimagined, Revitalized, and Relevant."

The discussion opens doors to a reimagined approach to high school mathematics that moves beyond the traditional curriculum model. Both guests highlight the importance of mathematical modeling as a pathway to authentic learning experiences where students tackle complex, multi-variable problems without predetermined solutions. This creates space for creative thinking and problem-solving skills that transcend the classroom.

However, transformation doesn't come without challenges. Kristi candidly shares her classroom experiences of struggling to surface the mathematical concepts within engaging modeling activities and the difficulty of finding relevant problems that align with required standards. Kris emphasizes the need for systemic support, including administrative understanding and professional development opportunities that give teachers space to experiment and grow.

Perhaps most powerfully, both educators stress the importance of persistence through inevitable frustrations. "If you believe in it and know it's great for students, just keep trying," Kristi encourages, reminding listeners that transformation is a journey rather than a destination. The conversation serves as both inspiration and practical roadmap for anyone interested in creating mathematics education that truly prepares students for their futures rather than simply repeating practices of the past.

Send Joel and Misty a message!

The More Math for More People Podcast is produced by CPM Educational Program.
Learn more at CPM.org
X: @cpmmath
Facebook: CPMEducationalProgram
Email: [email protected]

What happens when someone who doesn't identify as a "math person" joins a mathematics education organization? In our milestone 101st episode, Nick Love, CPM's Director of Strategic Communications, shares candid insights about navigating this territory that reveal powerful lessons about creating inclusive learning environments.

After spending years in school communications without being a classroom teacher, Nick found himself surrounded by mathematics education experts—an experience he describes as both inspiring and occasionally intimidating. "It's a little bit like hanging out with giants sometimes," he admits. His stories highlight what happens when we create spaces where everyone feels welcome to engage with mathematics, regardless of their background or comfort level.

Nick recounts a pivotal professional learning experience where a skilled facilitator simply asked, "What do you need to be successful in this session?" This question transformed his participation from anxiety to meaningful engagement. Rather than being tokenized, he was genuinely included in ways that honored his perspective while stretching his mathematical thinking appropriately. The experience shifted from "I don't belong here" to "I'm in with this group"—a transformation that mirrors what we hope all learners experience in mathematics classrooms.

We also explore what Nick calls "the art of the nudge"—a communication approach recognizing that when people don't respond to requests, it's usually because they're overwhelmed with competing priorities rather than disinterest. This gentle persistence creates connection rather than frustration, a valuable perspective for educators working with busy students and colleagues alike.

As we launch into our fifth season of the podcast, this conversation reminds us why our mission matters: creating conditions where everyone can engage meaningfully with mathematics expands possibilities for learning and belonging. Subscribe now to join us for more conversations about mathematics education that make a difference.

Send Joel and Misty a message!

The More Math for More People Podcast is produced by CPM Educational Program.
Learn more at CPM.org
X: @cpmmath
Facebook: CPMEducationalProgram
Email: [email protected]

First, it's National Rubber Eraser Day! So get your Pink Pearls out and celebrate!!

Then, we continue our conversation with Dr. Nicole Joseph of Vanderbilt University about the mathematical experiences of Black girls, revealing how they navigate spaces where they face unique challenges at the intersection of race and gender. Her research shows that Black girls are disproportionately affected by school disciplinary policies while simultaneously battling stereotypes about who belongs in mathematics.

Joseph's Black Feminist Math Pedagogies framework offers a revolutionary approach to mathematics education that honors both academic rigor and social connection. She challenges traditional notions of what "serious" math learning looks like, showing how Black girls thrive in environments that allow for laughter, collaboration, and relationship-building alongside challenging problem-solving. This transformative approach requires teachers to create classroom communities where critical conversations about justice and equity can flourish.

One message resonates clearly: curriculum alone cannot address educational inequities. Creating truly inclusive mathematics classrooms requires teachers who understand the complexities of students' identities and design learning environments where all students feel they belong. 

Academy of Best Practices is happening in San Diego, CA on Aug 4-8! Find applications for the Academy for New Teachers and Veteran CPM Teachers HERE! Deadline is May 10.

Send Joel and Misty a message!

The More Math for More People Podcast is produced by CPM Educational Program.
Learn more at CPM.org
X: @cpmmath
Facebook: CPMEducationalProgram
Email: [email protected]