Connally Independent School District

Connally ISD Curriculum Update

Week of 10/7/2024 - 10/11/2024

Director's Update

Happy October!

This week's focus is on the new Eureka Math adoption for grades K-5.

Eureka Math is a math curriculum used in many Texas schools for several reasons, including: 

  • Conceptual understanding: Students learn to think about math concepts instead of just memorizing answers 

  • Real-world application: Students learn to apply math to real-world scenarios 

  • Collaboration: Students work together to debate concepts and figure out how to reach conclusions 

  • Student-led groups: Students are allowed to choose which math methods work best for them 

  • Alignment with Texas standards: Eureka Math TEKS Edition is based on Texas Essential Knowledge and Skills (TEKS) standards 

  • Assessment: Eureka Math includes periodic opportunities to assess student learning, such as Exit Tickets, topic quizzes, and module assessments 

  • Support for teachers: Great Minds coaches provide personalized coaching to help teachers improve implementation 

The Texas Education Agency chose Great Minds to develop Eureka Math in 2020. As of February 2024, over 400 Texas school districts, both public and private, have adopted Eureka Math.  Connally ISD has elected to use Eureka, and CISD teachers and leaders are receiving training and ongoing support through the Education Service Center.

One great thing about Eureka is the informational center for parents! This link will take you to the Family Math Support Center for Great Minds which owns Eureka. From there you can further drill down (see below).

Family Tip Sheet
This is the menu of Family Tip Sheets available in English and Spanish for grades K-5.
Modules
Once you select a grade level, you can choose which Module and Topic your student is working on.
Tips
The first page of each sheet is "Tips for Families" which will give an overview of the key concepts being taught. A sample problem will also be included.
Help at home
The last section will include ways to help at home. Additionally, terms being used in class will be defined for you.

The overall approach is a shift from how we're taught math previously, but it has been incredible to walk through classrooms and hear the mathematical discussions students are having with one another. They're learning the WHY behind math and beginning to understand the "story of math." Remember, mastery of concepts may not be immediate, but students will continue to practice those knowledge and skills as they are woven throughout the year.

As always, please feel free to contact you child's teacher for more information.

Sandra Hancock, Ed. D.