The mathematics teachers have worked closely to align the curriculum with the state standards. The mathematics curriculum is driven by the Illinois Learning Goals, which encourage problem-solving techniques - estimation, mental mathematics, four-step process of reading, making a plan, solving the problem, and checking one's work. The teachers also focus on specific skills, such as working with percents and applying them to specific problems. According to one teacher, the state goals are more specific than the National Council of Teachers of Mathematics standards, as they encourage a balance of skill building and application.

Last year, the teachers piloted three textbooks but weren't happy with any of them. After sharing what worked well and what didn't, they finally decided to use a pre-algebra text by Glencoe and to supplement it with Connected Math, which offers a range of hands-on activities. Connected Math provides 10 project-based units at each grade level, and the staff chose to use four units per grade in addition to the textbook.

All the mathematics teachers were involved in making this decision. The teachers now meet during each grading quarter with the learning coordinator, Mrs. Moore, and Dr. Stack to review where they are and to make additional decisions. They also use this time to decide on purchasing new math materials. Mrs. Moore is available for questions, and she comes to curriculum meetings. She also plans professional development opportunities for the teachers. For example, she arranged for several teachers to attend Illinois middle-grades conferences, and, she recently contracted with a publisher to conduct in-service training for a new text series. In addition to quarterly meetings of the entire faculty, seventh grade teachers meet weekly with the principal and the administrator for that grade level.

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