Philosophy
Mathematics uses the language and science of patterns to describe the world in which we live, employing logic, observation, simulation, and experimentation. Mathematics is a universal means of communication.
To be well informed adults and to have access to desirable jobs, today's students require an education that goes far beyond what was needed by students in the past. All students must develop, deepen, and sharpen their skills, their understanding of mathematical concepts and processes, their abilities in problem-solving, reasoning, and communication abilities and hone their ability to make sense of and to solve compelling and complex problems. In order for this to occur, rigorous mathematical content must be organized, taught, and assessed in a problem-solving environment. Their mathematical knowledge must be connected to the ideas and skills found in all grade levels and content areas, as well as to real life situations outside the classroom.
General Information
Our elementary schools are opening a world of opportunity for children.
In elementary classes, students have their first exposure to mathematical ideas and concepts in all areas of mathematics. They are introduced to, practice, and develop mastery in the areas of Number Sense, Geometry, Measurement, Algebra, Probability and Statistics while they become problem solvers and learn to communicate about mathematics.
A strong elementary math education rests on three pillars:
- Problem Solving Skills
- Conceptual Understanding
- Computational Fluency
In June of 2007, the Issaquah School District adopted Everyday Math, a balanced curriculum that provides elementary students a solid foundation built on the three pillars above. Everyday Math also fits seamlessly with the District's middle- and high-school curriculum, helping to ensure today's beginning mathematicians will be prepared to be tomorrow's engineers, scientists, and economists. Our elementary math teachers researched and field-tested Everyday Math and overwhelmingly said it was the curriculum they preferred.
Online resources for parents
- Wshington State Mathematics Learning Standards
- Family Letters
- Everyday Math Online
Your student's teacher will send home a unique username and password at the beginning of every school year that will allow families to access this site, which includes an Interactive Student Reference Book and many online math games that specifically target the skills your student needs to know. Please contact your child's teacher if you misplace your username or password. Note: Some of the Everyday Math online games require the most current version of Shockwave Player. Others run on Flash Player. Check your computer at home to be sure the most up-to-date versions are installed. The following message may appear: "Click to run an ActiveX control on this webpage." Clicking that message is not dangerous and will be required to run some of the games.
- Learn more about Everyday Math at "Everyday Math Parent Connection"
- Everyday Math in the classroom
Other resources
Questions?
- Call or email your child's teacher
- Call K-12 Math Curriculum Specialist Leslie Nielsen at 425.837.7051 or email her at
nielsenl@issaquah.wednet.edu