When families join the equation, they inspire and empower every student mathematician Many secondary math educators feel the gap between home and school when it comes to engaging families in their students' mathematical development. While traditional "guardian involvement" often lessens after elementary school, research shows that authentic family engagement during the critical middle and high school years can significantly impact student success. Building Family-School Partnerships in Secondary Math offers a research-backed approach to bridging this divide, grounded in the Standards for Mathematical Practice, Math Language Routines, and Funds of Knowledge frameworks. This practical guide addresses the unique challenges of secondary mathematics education-from the cognitive and social changes students experience during adolescence to the increasing complexity of mathematical concepts. Rather than adding unrealistic demands to already busy teachers and caregivers, the book provides actionable strategies that honor the strengths and knowledge that educators, students, and families bring to the learning process. Key features include: Culturally responsive frameworks that connect students' lived experiences to powerful mathematical practices Ready-to-use templates for family letters, at-home activities, and communication tools Authentic vignettes showing successful family engagement in action across diverse communities Reflection questions and activities designed for both educators and families to use together Dr. Shakiyya Bland and Dr. Julitha Rials draw from their extensive experience in mathematics education and equity work to show how genuine partnerships can help students see math as relevant to their daily lives-whether through cooking, budgeting, construction, or community problem-solving. When families and educators collaborate meaningfully, mathematical thinking grows deeper and students develop stronger identities as capable mathematicians ready for future success.
Shakiyya Bland, EdD, is the Founder of the community-based not-for-profit Center for Universal STEM and Humanities and the LRM Foundation's Director of Education. She is also the Director of Educational Partnerships at a national math equity policy institute and a director on the board of TODOS: Mathematics for ALL. As a 2020-22 Albert Einstein Distinguished Educator Fellow, Dr. Bland contributed her expertise to both the U.S. Congress and the Executive Office of the U.S. Department of the Interior. With extensive experience as a PreK-12 mathematics educator, district mathematics curriculum instructional coach, she received the honors of 2015 Secondary Educator of the Year, 2019 Champion of Equity, and 2025 Call to Action Impact Award in recognition of dedication to instilling hope, creating change, and advancing equity. She is the author of numerous culturally responsive mathematics lessons, strategies, and research. Her innovative curriculum unit, which explores geometric modeling to address food apartheid and promote food security, was featured in High School Mathematics Lessons to Explore, Understand, and Respond to Social Injustice. She has also partnered with national organizations to develop impactful instructional and family engagement resources. Dr. Bland holds a Bachelor of Science in Education, a Master of Arts in Education specializing in Curriculum Instruction and Mathematics, and a Doctorate in Education Leadership. She remains dedicated to engaging communities in learning that integrates mathematics with culture, experience, and history. Dr. Julitha Rials' path to the classroom began in Corporate America, where she spent over 15 years in management after earning a Bachelor's degree in Personnel Administration and an MBA. While she found success in the business world, she felt a deeper calling to make a difference in education. Dr. Rials has spent the past 22 years in education, with a strong focus on mathematics and supporting students with special needs. She has a passion for creating inclusive learning environments where all students can thrive. She holds a Master's in Special Education and a Doctorate in School Leadership, and is a Certified Equity Facilitator, using her voice and experience to advocate for inclusive, student-centered education. In 2020, she was recognized as the Lawrence Public Schools Secondary Kansas Teacher of the Year, a recognition that reflects her dedication and impact in the classroom. Beyond teaching, Dr. Rials serves as the Finance Director for the LRM Foundation, where she helps lead initiatives that support the community. She also works closely with the foundation's Educational Director to bring hands-on STEM activities to students across Douglas County, Kansas. Whether she is in a classroom, a boardroom, or at a community event, Dr. Rials brings heart, leadership, and a deep belief that all students deserve to feel seen, supported, and inspired.
Preface Acknowledgments About the Authors Chapter 1: The Importance of Family Engagement in Secondary Math Education The Foundations Research on How Family Engagement Impacts Students Building a Collaborative Relationship Between Educators and Families Effective Communication Strategies Creating Inclusive Learning Environments Empowering Families to Support Math Learning at Home 1. Interactive Math Activities for Home Practice 2. Recommendations for Math-Focused Books, Games, and Apps Offering Guidance Without Overwhelming Families 1. Focus on Everyday Moments for Math Learning 2. Clear and Concise Instructions High Expectations for All Students Vision for a Supportive and Inclusive Approach to Family Engagement Conclusion: Recap of Key Points Reflection on Practice Self-Reflection Prompts Reflection Questions Educators Can Share with Caregivers Chapter 2: Mathematical Identity and Funds of Knowledge: Enhancing Engagement and Achievement The Foundations Understanding Mathematical Identity Perception of Self in Mathematical Identity Key Components of Mathematical Identity The Impact on Engagement and Achievement Cultural Funds of Knowledge Definition and Importance of Funds of Knowledge in Education Key Aspects of Funds of Knowledge in Education Recognition of Cultural Capital Teacher Professional Development Impact on Student Outcomes Connection to Mathematics Implementing Culturally Responsive Teaching Examples of Culturally Relevant Activities Conclusion: Recap of Key Points Reflection on Practice Self-Reflection Prompts Reflection Questions Educators Can Share with Caregivers Chapter 3: Engaging Families with the Standards for Mathematical Practice The Foundations Unpacking the Eight Standards for Mathematical Practice Linking SMPs to Real-World Learning Family Engagement Using the SMPs Cultivating Collaborative Learning Environments Family Math Engagement Activity Framework and Prompts (Algebra) Prompts for Family Conversations Building Bridges Beyond the Classroom: Family and Community Collaboration for Inclusive Math Learning Strategies to Strengthen Family Engagement in Math Removing Language Barriers for Multilingual Families Building Partnerships Through Community Resources Leveraging the Right Tools for Effective Problem Solving Virtual Engagement Opportunities to Increase Accessibility Gathering Insights to Improve Future Math Engagement Strategies Building a Culture of Feedback in Schools Conclusion: Recap of Key Points Reflection on Practice Self-Reflection Prompts Reflection Questions Educators Can Share with Caregivers Chapter 4: Mathematical Language Routines: Amplifying Family Engagement and Language Development in Mathematics The Foundations Understanding MLRs What Are MLRs? Unpacking the Eight MLRs Benefits of MLRs Fostering Mathematical Reasoning and Discourse Supporting Language Development Adaptability and Classroom Culture Integrating MLRs In Classroom Instruction Ways High School Math Teachers Can Integrate MLRs Modeling MLRs with Families Creating Collaborative Learning Opportunities Fostering Relationships Among Stakeholders Ensure All Families Can Access Multilingual-Related Materials and Support Conclusion: Recap of Key Insights Reflection on Practice Self-Reflection Prompts Reflection Questions for Educators to Share with Caregivers Chapter 5: Navigating Transitions: Pivotal Decisions in Secondary Mathematics Education The Foundations Understanding Pivotal Grade-Level Transition Phases The Nature of the Grade-Level Transition Elementary School Middle School High School Emotional Changes During Grade Transitions Key Decisions During Grade-Level Transitions Factors Influencing Course Placement Implications for Academic Trajectories Three Examples of Middle and High School Mathematics Pathways Why Examine High School Math Pathways? Example: Georgia's High School Math Sequences Example: Washington State's High School Math Sequences Automatic Enrollment and Clear Communication Role of Counselors and Educators Example: Ohio's High School Math Sequences Questions Families May Ask The Role of Effective Communication Among Stakeholders During Transitions Navigating the Transition Together Preparing Stakeholders for Informed Decisions Collaborate with Stakeholders and Provide Resources Advocate for Professional Development Share and Gather Feedback Conclusion: Recap of Key Points Reflection on Practice Self-Reflection Prompts Reflection Questions Educators Can Share with Caregivers References Index
