Saugus Schools Secure Three-Year Grant to Enhance Math Education

Saugus schools have been awarded a significant grant aimed at improving math instruction, a move announced by the Department of Elementary and Secondary Education. The Multi-tiered Systems of Support (MTSS) Math Academy grant will support the district for three years, marking it as one of only 11 districts selected for this initiative.

Andrea Wheeler, the secondary math coach for grades six through 12, emphasized the importance of this grant. “Last June, we became aware of a competitive grant opportunity that focused on tiered instruction,” she explained. This method allows students to work towards the same curriculum goals via different pathways tailored to their individual needs.

Wheeler collaborated with Susan Turbine, Executive Director of Curriculum, Instruction, and Assessment, to develop the grant proposal. Their success in securing the funding can be attributed to existing resources within the schools, including two dedicated math instructional coaches and the use of established high-quality curriculum materials.

At the elementary level, the schools have utilized the enVision math program for several years, while at the secondary level, they have adopted Carnegie for the past five years. “These structures will make the work we do internally sustainable for years to come, even after this grant is over,” Wheeler noted.

The grant specifically targets students in upper elementary through middle school, spanning grades four to eight. A particular focus will be on the transition from fifth to sixth grade, where data has shown a decline in Massachusetts Comprehensive Assessment System (MCAS) scores. “It is a tough transition leaving elementary and heading into middle school,” Wheeler said.

The MTSS framework includes three tiers of support. Tier 1 offers universal classroom instruction for all students, while Tier 2 provides additional practice for those who need it and enrichment for others. “Tier 2 is where the differentiation occurs,” Wheeler explained. Tier 3 focuses on intensive intervention, offering individualized support.

Currently, Saugus schools are implementing all tiers of support. Wheeler stated, “The whole purpose of this grant is to help us strengthen and maximize our efforts.”

Tracy Ragucci, the elementary math coach, highlighted several overarching goals. “We want to strengthen our tiered instruction, with a major focus on building our in-district capacity,” she said. Ragucci assured that this effort is not a temporary fix but aims for long-lasting sustainability.

The process began with a planning phase, establishing a clear vision for implementation in the district. As part of the ongoing efforts, classroom visits are being conducted to assess strengths and needs.

Next on the agenda is professional development. Ragucci mentioned that currently, eight teachers are participating in two in-district courses designed to enhance their instructional skills. These opportunities will continue throughout the grant period.

Teachers will also have access to workshops, with coaching and implementation being integral parts of the program. “Andrea and I have already gone through three cycles of coaching with our grant representative,” Ragucci said, emphasizing the importance of supporting teachers in implementing planned lessons.

The final element of the cycle focuses on building internal capacity within the district. Both Wheeler and Ragucci expressed gratitude for the commitment shown by teachers as they adopt new techniques and methodologies. “Their hard work and dedication have not gone unnoticed,” Ragucci added.

Turbine remarked on the competitive nature of the grant process, commending the efforts of Ragucci and Wheeler in securing this vital support for Saugus schools. With this funding, the district aims to enhance math education significantly, ensuring students are better prepared for the challenges of higher grades.