New York State Education Department unveils comprehensive numeracy briefs to transform PreK–12 mathematics teaching across all districts

New York – In a strategic push to bolster math education across the state, the New York State Education Department (NYSED) has unveiled a new collection of numeracy briefs aimed at empowering educators with research-driven tools for PreK-12 mathematics instruction. Education Commissioner Betty A. Rosa made the announcement as part of NYSED’s ongoing Numeracy Initiative, which will continue through the 2025–26 academic year.

These newly released materials are tailored to guide school administrators, math teachers, and numeracy leaders in implementing stronger, evidence-based approaches in the classroom. The documents—available now on the department’s Numeracy Initiative website—highlight best practices backed by current educational research and provide actionable strategies for educators at all levels.

“Mathematics is woven into the fabric of our everyday lives, from measuring ingredients in the kitchen to keeping score during game night,” said Commissioner Rosa. “Strong numeracy skills empower learners to succeed both inside and outside the classroom. These briefs offer science-informed guidance on numeracy instruction, providing educators at all levels with practical strategies to build lifelong mathematical confidence and competence.”

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The announcement came on the heels of a statewide numeracy event held on May 13, a gathering that brought together leaders from the Boards of Cooperative Education Services (BOCES), the Big 5 school districts, and several small city school systems. At the heart of the event was a keynote presentation by nationally recognized mathematics education expert Dr. Deborah Loewenberg Ball.

Dr. Ball, who authored the new numeracy briefs, is the William H. Payne Collegiate Professor at the University of Michigan and also leads the organization TeachingWorks. She was joined at the event by Nicole Garcia, Associate Director of TeachingWorks, who focuses on PreK-12 instruction. Together, they delivered insights into how math teaching can be improved through more thoughtful, responsible, and inclusive approaches.

Board of Regents Chancellor Lester W. Young, Jr. emphasized the importance of updating math instruction to meet today’s educational challenges. “Mathematics is a fundamental pillar of education, with the power to exponentially enhance students’ potential across all disciplines,” he said. “While mathematical principles remain constant, our teaching methods must evolve to meet the needs of today’s learners. I am grateful to Dr. Ball for her collaboration in developing these briefs and encourage educators to explore these evidence-based practices to strengthen instruction and student success.”

NYSED’s broader goal is to ensure that every student has access to a high-quality, culturally responsive mathematics education. Central to this mission are the state’s Next Generation Mathematics Learning Standards (NGMLS), which were adopted in 2017. These standards outline what students should understand and be able to do at each grade level, ensuring they are prepared for real-world situations that demand mathematical thinking.

To further support districts in implementing the NGMLS, NYSED has developed a wide array of guidance and resources. These include instructional materials, professional development opportunities, and now, the newly released numeracy briefs. All of these tools are designed to help educators create learning environments where all students—regardless of background—can engage with math in meaningful and productive ways.

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In tandem with the Numeracy Initiative, the Department also continues to support math fluency through the Expanded Math Access Program (EMAP). This initiative gives K-8 students free access to the First in Math (FIM) Program, a digital platform that offers standards-aligned games and activities aimed at building math skills through repeated, engaging practice. The program has become an essential resource in helping students reach grade-level expectations for math fluency.

To celebrate student achievement in math, NYSED will once again host its annual Statewide Mathematics Tournament on May 31 at the New York State Museum. In a new expansion of the event, this year’s competition will include middle schoolers in grades 6 through 8 for the first time. The tournament uses the FIM platform and serves as a fun, competitive way to reinforce classroom learning while encouraging a love for math.

Altogether, the launch of the numeracy briefs represents a significant step forward in New York State’s ongoing efforts to improve mathematics instruction. By equipping educators with tools grounded in research and real-world relevance, NYSED aims to elevate math learning outcomes and prepare students for the complex demands of life beyond school.

As schools and teachers begin to explore the new briefs, the hope is that the materials will spark conversations, inspire instructional shifts, and ultimately lead to more confident and capable math learners throughout the state.