MORGANTOWN, W.Va. — University High School in Morgantown will host the Mathematics Revised Standards Rollout at INVEST (Infuse, Network, Value, Engage, Support, Target) Conference Monday, July 22 through Wednesday, July 24.
Academic Support Coordinator Tim Flatley said about 150 teachers from across the state will have two days to review updated standards and get familiar with effective strategies to teach them.
“We have revised math standards that became effective on July 1, 2024, and we’re immersing math teachers from across West Virginia to explore these revised standards,” Flatley said.
The new West Virginia College and Career Readiness Standards for Mathematics are built on the “habits of the mind” and specify what students should know and understand. The new standards are detailed in West Virginia Board Policy 2520.2B.
“They’re going to talk about the standards, analyze the standards, and learn about how other teachers across West Virginia are teaching the standards so students have success,” Flatley said.
This conference allows the teachers to align their minds with the new standards and familiarize themselves with ways to teach them. Getting those new ideas into their thought processes will help these teachers learn the fundamentals of effectively teaching and helping students who have problems.
“They are working on developing their mindset and their toolbox,” Flatley said. “That teacher toolkit they have access to every day, we’re building and adding strategies to that so they can include all learners in their classrooms.”
Flatley said the 150 teachers at the event will also have the chance to develop a network of professional support that they can go back to as the school year progresses and challenges may develop. All of the sessions will be at University High School except for one Tuesday block of training that will be held at the Marriott at Waterfront Place in Morgantown.
“Now, you’re connecting with another 6th grade math teacher who works in another county,” Flatley said. “You can create a bond and communicate, try to learn from each other, and reach out when you need support or help.”
This is the first session planned, and more will follow during the school year.
“This is ongoing work, and we will continue to work in this manner,” Flatley said. “To try to help and support educators in learning about those research-based best practices and applying them in the classroom. Ultimately, our goal is to make sure students have success and students are learning in each environment.”