Mathematics

 St. Paul emphasizes the importance of mathematics as an essential element of the engineering and design process.  All students are instructed and assessed following the Ohio Learning Standards which closely resembles the Common Core Standards for Mathematics.

In 2018, St. Paul established a math curriculum team to carefully review the STAR Math Diagnostic and TerraNova3 data from the last five years.  The committee led to the adoption of the i-Ready technology-enhanced math resource program from Curriculum Associates giving all students K-4 an individualized path for math success.  Following a comprehensive diagnostic measuring each student’s unique strengths and weaknesses, the students can achieve a higher level of understanding using Chromebooks both inside and outside the classroom.  While monitoring this data for each child, the teachers can anticipate potential gaps in learning with new material and ensure a differentiated instructional plan for each student.

Based on data analysis, St. Paul decided to employ an inclusion-based tutor for students in grades 5-6 to collaborate with the specialized math teacher.  The math tutor assists in the differentiation process combining a series of strategies to ensure that all students are learning regardless of their mastery level.  Students who have mastered grade-level standards are pulled out for extension groups on a week to week basis, and students who need remedial assistance are served directly in the classroom.

St. Paul students are offered a differentiated math offering once reaching 6th grade.  Based on test scores and assessment performance in the classroom, students are either placed in Advanced or General mathematics.  Students in advanced mathematics take Pre-Algebra in 7th grade and a high school level Algebra class in 8th from the same highly qualified math instructor, taking the Ohio state test and putting them in a position to take Geometry as freshmen.  A different highly qualified math specialist teaches general mathematics to students in both 7th and 8th grade so they will be successful in Algebra I as freshmen. Employing two highly qualified math instructors to teach the same grade levels allows a truly differentiated approach, gives the teachers an opportunity to work with the same students for two years and reduces the class sizes giving students more personal attention on a day to day basis.

K-8 classroom teachers collaborate with the intervention team to review and analyze formative and summative assessment data and STAR Math data on an ongoing basis throughout the year. Intervention specialists utilize personalized data to assist K-4 classroom teachers in providing appropriate instructional and assessment accommodations.  Fifth through eighth grade math teachers share lesson plans and assessments with the intervention team so that all students receive the proper modifications and/or accommodations.