Math & Literacy Instruction Policies:
Math and literacy instruction policies are governance decisions that directly impact student achievement, grade level proficiency, and long term academic success. At First State Educate, we support school leaders in using research, data, and effective policy practices to strengthen core instruction and improve outcomes for students across Delaware’s public schools.
This page features national policy news and research related to school climate and discipline to help you stay informed about trends, best practices, and emerging issues. Read the article summaries and access the articles via the buttons below. Explore current conversations, understand how other states and districts are approaching these topics, and consider how these insights may inform governance decisions in Delaware.
Maryland - State Board of Education
The Board's proposal to improve consistently low math scores statewide received support and opposition from educators during a public comment session. The plan includes standardizing elementary math instruction, restructuring the traditional high school algebra sequence, establishing transparent accountability systems for student progress, and providing professional development and resources for educators.
Wisconsin - Various Districts
Despite a lack of state funding, some Wisconsin school districts are proactively adopting the Act 20 curriculum, which emphasizes a phonics-based approach to reading instruction. Act 20, signed into law in 2023, mandates this shift to the “science of reading”, but the $50 million allocated for its implementation remains unreleased amid ongoing disputes and legislative delays.