Each month, we'll spotlight the wonderful individuals serving on our school boards or the outstanding work

being done by school systems across the state!

DeKalb County Schools Leads the Way in Math Education

DeKalb County Schools has garnered statewide and national attention for their outstanding progress in elementary math education. With a student-centered approach, dedicated coaching and strong leadership at all levels, DeKalb is proving that early investment in math works.

In a recent article, NPR highlighted DeKalb County's success and dissected the system’s progress which is rooted in collaboration and innovation.

“The key to our progress has been a multi-layered, intentional approach centered on building collective teacher efficacy, equitable access to professional development, and a strong focus on conceptual and concrete learning,” said Dekalb County Schools Superintendent Wayne Lyles. 

Beginning in 2018, DeKalb County identified significant math achievement gaps and responded with a data-informed, district-wide strategy. Some of the most impactful steps have included:

• Expanding math instructional coaches and interventionists to support teaching across all schools.
• Implementing the Marzano High Reliability Schools (HRS) framework to ensure consistent, high-quality instruction.
• Creating a district math leadership team and math curriculum documents focused on priority standards.
• Offering robust professional development, including training in math manipulatives, proficiency scales, and curriculum integration.
• Partnering with the Office of Math Improvement (OMI) and Alabama Math Science and Technology Initiative (AMSTI) to support coaching and teacher growth.
• Using common formative assessments and improving Tier 1 and Tier 2 instruction through vertical alignment.

"Together, these efforts reflect a clear and coherent strategy focused on sustainable and systemic improvement," said Lyles. 

Beyond programs and strategies, DeKalb County has made culture change a top priority. The goal? To ensure everyone in the school system believes math success is possible for all students. 

"Creating a system-wide mindset that math is for everyone starts with shifting beliefs at every level," Lyles shared. DeKalb County has prioritized professional learning communities (PLCs) and inclusive instructional practices to create a culture where both teachers and students see the possibility of success. All math training and planning includes special education teachers and leans on ensuring all students are challenged and supported. Additionally, parent involvement through school math nights and resource sharing has helped maintain a culture of support beyond the classroom.

DeKalb County’s recognition comes as a result of years of careful planning and commitment to continuous improvement.

Listen to NPR's visit to DeKalb County below.

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