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In this episode of Practical Access, hosts Lisa Dieker and Rebecca Hines welcome Dr. Sarah Bush, Lockheed Martin Eminent Scholar at the University of Central Florida and co-author of The Math Pact series. The conversation dives into strategies for making math education engaging for all students, including those with disabilities.

Dr. Bush discusses the synergy between high-leverage practices (HLPs), mathematics, and effective teaching practices (ETPs), emphasizing the importance of Universal Design for Learning (UDL) in both general and special education. She advocates for asset-based approaches to teaching, highlighting the need to leverage students’ strengths and avoid harmful deficit labels.

Key insights include:

• Avoiding Deficit Labels: Shift focuses to students’ strengths and build on them to support areas of growth.
• Value in Math Education: Replace rigid teaching rules with flexible, meaningful practices, like emphasizing the true meaning of the equal sign and avoiding ineffective keyword strategies in problem-solving.
• Creating Positive Math Experiences: Teachers should cultivate an open, contextual approach to math, encouraging engagement and reducing negative associations. Dr. Bush stresses the importance of never framing oneself as “not a math person” in front of students.

Dr. Bush also reflects on what makes an inclusive math classroom truly exceptional—empowered, confident teachers who foster a caring and nurturing environment, set high expectations, and provide tools for students to succeed.

This episode is packed with practical strategies for educators looking to create inclusive, effective math classrooms that inspire confidence and success in all learners.

We love to hear from our listeners! If you have any questions, feel free to reach out. We look forward to receiving your questions on our Twitter (@Accesspractical) or Instagram (@Practical_Access).

Resources:

Sarah Bush's Bio: https://ccie.ucf.edu/person/sarah-bush/

National Council of Teachers of Mathematics: https://www.nctm.org/

Math Pact Series: https://www.corwin.com/landing-pages/the-math-pact?srsltid=AfmBOorx3GL6RwftuSyi3uY6dwF96tn9h_QvrDpPNwoNrO9Da0RpG366

NCTM and CEC Position Statement on Teaching Mathematics to Students with Disabilities: https://www.nctm.org/uploadedFiles/Standards_and_Positions/Position_Statements/NCTM-CEC-Disabilities-Position-Statement-December2024.pdf