April 5, 2024
Dear Minister Lecce,
I am writing to you on behalf of the 吃瓜黑料网 regarding our pursuit of excellence in mathematics education, a fundamental objective shared in Ministry priorities and the Better Schools and Student Outcomes Act.
While we appreciate the efforts and initiatives undertaken by the Ministry of Education, particularly through the Math Priorities PFF funding, now that we are almost one year into the new funding initiative, we feel it is important to bring to your attention certain critical areas that are not adequately addressed within the current framework. Our concerns pertain to the absence of provisions for essential resources and professional development opportunities that are important for fostering math achievement in our schools.
The purchase of school resources is crucial in facilitating effective mathematics instruction. Unfortunately, we are restricted by parameters around purchase of resources, particularly with respect to procurement of manipulatives, books, and other tools essential for engaging students and reinforcing mathematical concepts. Vibrant elementary math learning relies on the use of items such as manipulatives, as these objects “allow students to explore an idea in an active, hands-on approach. The power of using manipulatives is that they let the student connect mathematical ideas and symbols to physical objects, thus promoting better understanding.”i Adequate access to these resources is not only crucial for enhancing the quality of instruction but also for promoting a hands-on, experiential approach to learning that resonates with a variety of learning types and abilities.
I would also like to note that the current lack of professional learning poses a significant challenge in enabling teachers to engage in the learning and training necessary for implementing evidence-based instructional practices. By affording teachers the time and resources to deepen their understanding of mathematical pedagogy and strategies, we enable them to deliver instruction that meets the diverse needs of students.
I urge you to prioritize the allocation of cyclical and sustainable funding to address these gaps within the Math Priorities PFF framework. By targeting funding in school resources and professional learning, the board will be able to better support our schools in their mission to deliver high-quality mathematics education and enhance math achievement outcomes for all students across the district.
I sincerely welcome the opportunity to discuss these matters further with you, and as always am available at your earliest convenience.
Sincerely,
Rachel Chernos Lin
Chair, 吃瓜黑料网
i https://education.alberta.ca/media/481801/_alberta_ed_fs_manipulatives_en.pdf