School of Education receives $500,000 grant to work with Moreno Valley School District

November 18, 2015

The University of Redlands has been awarded a half-million-dollar grant to increase mathematics achievement among elementary students in Moreno Valley Unified School District (MVUSD), with a particular focus on students who are of color, are English learners or are from low-income families.

A collaborative project of the University and the District, the “Transforming Lives through Mathematics Leadership Institute” will develop collaboratively led professional learning communities in which elementary school teachers and principals will work together to develop their knowledge in math-focused content, pedagogy and technology-infused instruction.

The goal of the project is to help elementary students build the growth mindset, number sense and algebraic conceptual knowledge necessary to form a solid foundation for future math achievement in middle and high school.

The University of Redlands will oversee the project through the School of Education’s Center for Educational Justice. Involving faculty across the institution, the University will provide content and pedagogical expertise in math and instructional leadership to the Moreno Valley Unified School District partners.

“Partnering on math professional development for elementary school teachers, administrators and students with Moreno Valley Unified School District fits with our commitment to advance education by improving teaching and learning for students,” says Dr. Andrew Wall, dean of the School of Education.

“The schools we are working with have kids who are likely to be high need, which helps to fulfill our social justice commitments to advancing education for all youth, but specifically those with the greatest need.”