Essential Math Coaching: The Highest Leveraged Move You Can Make For Math Improvement

Making Math Moments That Matter

Why are so many districts pouring resources into math PD but seeing so little classroom change?

It’s not because teachers aren’t trying. It’s not about motivation or willingness. The real reason is this: most systems aren’t built to support true instructional transformation. In this episode, we unpack the disconnect between a district’s vision for math learning and the day-to-day realities of classroom practice—and we make the case for math coaching as the essential lever most districts are missing.

Drawing from research, real-world examples, and the common challenges we hear from district teams, Jon challenges leaders to rethink how professional learning is structured—especially when funding is limited, time is tight, and expectations are high.

Listeners Will:

• Understand the research behind why math PD alone doesn’t shift math instruction
• Learn how math instructional coaching dramatically increases classroom implementation
• Explore what it takes to design a system that supports consistent, lasting change
• Reflect on the “greatest good dilemma” and why starting small may be your best bet
• Get inspired to build the next round of math leaders—one teacher at a time

If your district is serious about improving math instruction, press play and discover the one investment that creates real, sustainable impact.

Not sure what matters most when designing math improvement plans? Take this assessment and get a free customized report: https://makemathmoments.com/grow/

Math coordinators and leaders – Ready to design your math improvement plan with guidance, support and using structure? Learn how to follow our 4 stage process. https://growyourmathprogram.com

Looking to supplement your curriculum with problem based lessons and units? Make Math Moments Problem Based Lessons & Units

Show Notes Page

Love the show? Text us your big takeaway!

Are you wondering how to create K-12 math lesson plans that leave students so engaged they don’t want to stop exploring your math curriculum when the bell rings? In their podcast, Kyle Pearce and Jon Orr—founders of MakeMathMoments.com—share over 19 years of experience inspiring K-12 math students, teachers, and district leaders with effective math activities, engaging resources, and innovative math leadership strategies. Through a 6-step framework, they guide K-12 classroom teachers and district math coordinators on building a strong, balanced math program that grows student and teacher impact. Each week, gain fresh ideas, feedback, and practical strategies to feel more confident and motivate students to see the beauty in math. Start making math moments today by listening to Episode #139: "Making Math Moments From Day 1 to 180.