This fall, OCFSD elementary families experienced the magic of math during Family Math Nights at their school. As the District prepared to dive into a new elementary math curriculum, learning coaches worked together to develop a family-friendly event to encourage excitement and positivity about mathematics.

"Elementary Family Math Nights sprouted from a desire to engage more families in mathematics, especially as we launch a new math curricular resource," shares Michelle Douglas-Meyer, the District's math facilitator. Illustrative Mathematics (IM) is the new math curriculum being implemented in all elementary classrooms beginning with the 23-24 school year. IM's goal is "to create a world where learners know, use, and enjoy mathematics." "We want to engage families through these math nights to show and experience some of the ways our OCFSD students will come to know, use, and enjoy mathematics to successfully meet our district's expectations," Douglas-Meyer explains.

Families played math games tailored to each grade level's instruction during each event. There were also opportunities to learn about IM and talk with teachers and district representatives. "It was great to see our families, students, and staff connecting and sharing the joy and magic of math," shares Karen Johannes, the learning coach at Cedar Hills Elementary. "The games at Family Math Night illustrated that math is something fun families can do together. Math is for everyone!" Johannes continues.

The District plans to make Family Math Night an annual event for elementary families.