Are you choosing a math curriculum for your school next year? Whether you’re mid-process or just starting out, this episode of Math Chat is your guide to making smarter curriculum decisions that truly support teachers and students. Join Mona as she breaks down three common mistakes schools make during curriculum selection—and how to avoid them.
✅ Why Curriculum Selection Is Such a Big Deal
Choosing a curriculum isn’t just a logistical decision—it’s a high-stakes process that can directly impact student success and teacher effectiveness. In this opening, Mona unpacks why math curriculum selection matters so much, especially in schools aiming to build communities of problem solvers.
❌ Mistake #1: Skipping a Vision-Aligned Curriculum Criteria List
One of the biggest—and most preventable—curriculum selection mistakes? Not starting with a clear, school-wide math vision and aligned criteria. Mona explains how defining what it means to be a “mathematician” at your school lays the groundwork for choosing a curriculum that truly supports deep learning.
📋 What Belongs on Your Selection Criteria List?
From daily problem-solving to conceptual understanding through manipulatives, Mona offers real examples of what should be on your curriculum selection checklist. She also shares how this list should reflect your values and instructional goals—making it easier to filter out flashy features that don’t serve your students.
❌ Mistake #2: Getting Distracted by Features Instead of Content
Sure, lesson slides and Google Classroom integration are great—but not if the core content misses the mark. In this section, Mona shares a story from her time in Chicago Public Schools that illustrates how usability can’t come at the expense of instructional quality. She gives actionable tips for balancing features and pedagogy.
✅ How to Separate Must-Have Features from Nice-to-Haves
Create two lists: one for your must-have instructional elements and another for “nice” features like digital quizzes and fluency tools. Mona explains how this approach helps your selection team stay focused and avoid being swayed by shiny tools that don’t actually support meaningful math learning.
❌ Mistake #3: Thinking Curriculum Alone Will Fix Everything
Even the best curriculum won’t work without teacher support. Mona dives into why professional learning and coaching are essential—because a curriculum is a tool, not a solution. She shares a personal story that underscores how powerful it is to support teachers with implementation, not just materials.
💡 Final Thoughts: Invest in Teachers, Not Just Curriculum
Curriculum can never replace the power of a well-supported teacher. Mona emphasizes the importance of ongoing coaching, collaboration, and shared vision when rolling out new curriculum materials. Don’t miss her top takeaway: teachers are the ones who make curriculum come alive.
✨ Bonus: Get Support for the 2025-26 School Year
Looking ahead to next year? Mona is now booking PD and coaching packages—and offering a limited-time discount on contracts signed before July 15th. Whether you want back-to-school training, a second-semester book study, or virtual PD with follow-up coaching, she’s got options to fit your goals and budget.
🔗 Learn more and book your support at monamath.com/services
🎧 Ready to make your curriculum selection process stronger and smarter?
Listen to the full episode now! If it helped you, please take a moment to subscribe, leave a review, and share it with a fellow educator or school leader making curriculum decisions.
👉 Listen on MonaMath.com/Podcast
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