A Comprehensive Training and Incentives Model for Providing a Rigorous Middle School Mathematics Program

Elements of Success

The Access to Algebra Elements of Success are designed to be implemented simultaneously in a coordinated manner, strategically focusing on student access, engagement, and success. The program promotes and supports a school culture of high expectations for rigorous student learning and targeting open enrollment in 8th grade Algebra and other accelerated math courses. The overall goal is to increase the number of students prepared for advanced STEM coursework in high school including a focus on inclusion of students traditionally underrepresented in advanced courses.

Supporting Student Access to Rigorous Coursework

A culture of inclusiveness and preparation for more students to be successfully engaged in rigorous math courses.

Time on Task

Financial support for extracurricular content review sessions and/or other content specific instructional supports made readily available to students.

Exam Fee Support

Financial coverage for purchasing and administering the PSAT 8/9 for all 7th and 8th graders.

Supplies & Equipment

Financial support for new equipment and supplies to directly enhance classroom math instruction.

Student Incentives

Financial incentives for 8th grade students meeting math benchmark or demonstrating significant growth on the PSAT 8/9.

Content Focused Teacher Training

4 day Laying the Foundation training provided for all math teachers.

Teacher Bonuses

Stipends awarded for program participation and bonuses offered for student success.

Vertical Teaming

Collaboration among math teachers to prepare for student success in rigorous courses.

Content Coordinators

Stipends for Lead Teachers identified to coordinate school efforts and act as liaison for program.

Teacher Mentors

Content experts provided to assist teachers upon request.

How to Apply

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Commitment to Model

Selected schools agree to follow the Access to Algebra Math Elements of Success model and enter into a partnership with AdvanceKentucky.

Submission of Application

Interested schools may apply to the program at any time of the year by completing an online application. The application may be accessed here. Site visits to schools are conducted each fall, with new cohorts chosen yearly in December.

Selection Process

The school selection process includes site visits with schools, a formal invitation to participate, and a Letter of Agreement negotiation meeting.  Preference will be given to schools that are in a position to initiate or dramatically increase access to advanced middle school math programs, particularly for underrepresented student populations. 

Availability of Funding

Overall funding is limited each year in total amount and by donor guidelines that may restrict the use of funds.  We offer this early alert to applicants that while we work year-round on fundraising, we may not be certain of the total amount available to support new schools until the spring.

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Laying the Foundation Training

Our program provides twelve days of Laying the Foundation (LTF) Training for all math teachers over the course of the three-year cohort participation. LTF is dedicated to providing quality teacher-to-teacher training, rigorous classroom materials, and web-based resources to improve the quality of instruction. A program overview from our national partner, the National Math & Science Initiative, can be found here. For local LTF training information, including upcoming dates, check AdvanceKentucky's event page or contact Annette Williams at awilliams@kstc.com.