Making Math Moments That Matter

Kyle Pearce & Jon Orr

Wondering how to create a classroom culture where students don't want to stop exploring mathematics when the bell rings? Kyle Pearce from TapIntoTeenMinds.com and Jon Orr from MrOrr-IsAGeek.com team up to uncover how we can Make Math Moments That Matter for every student in the math classroom from Kindergarten through Grade 12. Discover how you can build easy to plan and fun to deliver math lessons that kids will not only love, but also learn from using the Making Math Moments That Matter 3-Part Framework. Get ready to learn as we interview math education influencers, engage in coaching calls with mathematics educators from around the world, and take deep dives into assessment, differentiation, student behaviour, engagement, problem solving, math fact fluency, and many other common teacher challenges as we strive to Make Math Moments That Matter. Let’s learn how we can meet the needs of every learner in all classrooms regardless of student readiness together!All show notes and resources can be found at MakeMathMoments.com 

  • 26 minutes 47 seconds
    How Shifting Assessment Practices in Math Is Your Gateway To Improved Achievement | Math Assessment Coaching & Training

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


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


    Are your teachers’ math assessments helping students grow as learners or are they hindering student achievement? 

    In this episode, Jon Orr and Yvette Lehman dive into the role of assessment in math education and how a shift in assessment practices can create a classroom culture that values growth and understanding. Hear real insights from their work with district leaders to transform summative assessments into powerful tools for student growth.

    1. Discover practical ways to make assessments opportunities for reflection and improvement, even for summative assessments.
    2. Learn how to build a math classroom culture where assessments foster self-awareness and ownership over learning.
    3. Gain strategies for implementing moderated marking and community practices that create alignment and elevate teaching practices.

    Listen to this episode now to reshape your assessment approach and support lasting student growth in math!


    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!

    Empower Your Students (and Teachers) Using A Professional Learning Plan That Sparks Engagement, Fuels Deep Learning, and Ignites Action!
    https://makemathmoments.com/make-math-moments-district-mentorship-program/ 

    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.

    21 November 2024, 10:00 am
  • 31 minutes 59 seconds
    Math Retention Struggles Grades 6 to 12: Here’s Why and How To Fix It

    Are you struggling with your student’s math retention or maybe you’re struggling to engage students who feel disconnected from math or battle math anxiety?

    In this episode, Jon Orr and Yvette Lehman welcome back Juliana Tapper, an expert in supporting students who struggle with math, to explore impactful ways to address student engagement and math anxiety in grades 6-12. Drawing on insights from her new book and 2024 Make Math Moments Virtual Summit Session, Juliana shares practical strategies for educators dealing with retention issues and lack of student motivation.

    • Discover brain science behind math anxiety and why some students struggle with recall and problem-solving.
    • Learn four actionable strategies to create a supportive math classroom that builds confidence and collaboration.
    • Gain insights into balancing grade-level content with the needs of students who feel disconnected from math.

    Listen now to transform your classroom environment and help struggling math students thrive!

    Show Notes Page.

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


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

    Love the show? Text us your big takeaway!

    Empower Your Students (and Teachers) Using A Professional Learning Plan That Sparks Engagement, Fuels Deep Learning, and Ignites Action!
    https://makemathmoments.com/make-math-moments-district-mentorship-program/ 

    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.

    18 November 2024, 10:00 am
  • 7 minutes 39 seconds
    Prune to Thrive: Why Doing Less Can Strengthen Your Math Program | Effective Mathematics Coaching and Training

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

    Ready to design your math improvement plan with guidance, support and using structure? Learn how to follow our 4 stage process. http://makemathmoments.com/discovery/ 

    Are you struggling to make a real impact in your math program, constantly adding new initiatives but not seeing the results you hoped for?

    In this video, Jon Orr dives into the idea of "doing less" by focusing on what truly matters in K-12 math education. He uses a powerful tree analogy to illustrate how trimming down and concentrating on the essentials can lead to a stronger, more impactful program.

    1. Learn why focusing on fewer, impactful goals can transform your math program.
    2. Discover the six core components of effective math programs, from leadership to mindset.
    3. Get practical tips on pruning distractions so you can build a unified vision that resonates with your team.

    Ready to strengthen your math program by focusing on what matters most? Tune in now to get started on creating impactful, lasting change!


    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!

    Empower Your Students (and Teachers) Using A Professional Learning Plan That Sparks Engagement, Fuels Deep Learning, and Ignites Action!
    https://makemathmoments.com/make-math-moments-district-mentorship-program/ 

    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.

    14 November 2024, 10:00 am
  • 35 minutes 5 seconds
    From Teacher to Facilitator in Math Class - An Interview with Crystal M. Watson | Mathematical Discourse

    Ready to transform your math classroom into a space where students feel empowered, take risks, and truly engage in meaningful learning and mathematical discourse?

    In this episode of the Making Math Moments That Matter podcast, we sit down with Crystal M. Watson to explore how educators can shift from being the “knower” at the front of the room to becoming facilitators of authentic student-driven discourse. If you’re struggling with balancing direct instruction and student-centered learning, this episode is for you!

    • Discover actionable strategies to create a classroom culture where students feel safe to take risks and participate in rich mathematical discussions.
    • Learn how to integrate both direct instruction and inquiry-based learning to enhance student engagement and understanding.
    • Gain practical tips for fostering an environment of continuous learning and improvement for both you and your students.

    Tune in now and equip yourself with the tools to foster deeper mathematical thinking and collaboration in your classroom!


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


    Ready to design your math improvement plan with guidance, support and using structure? Learn how to follow our 4 stage process. http://makemathmoments.com/discovery/ 


    Show Notes Page.

    Love the show? Text us your big takeaway!

    Empower Your Students (and Teachers) Using A Professional Learning Plan That Sparks Engagement, Fuels Deep Learning, and Ignites Action!
    https://makemathmoments.com/make-math-moments-district-mentorship-program/ 

    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.

    11 November 2024, 10:00 am
  • 4 minutes 42 seconds
    90% of Math Educators Won’t Implement Your Strategy Without This Component

    Have you ever delivered a professional development session that felt powerful in the moment but didn't lead to the changes you hoped for in the classroom?

    In this episode, we tackle a common challenge: how to ensure your PD sessions translate into real, meaningful shifts in teacher practice. It’s not enough to inspire in the moment; you need to create lasting impact that continues well beyond the day of learning.

    • Discover how to integrate reflection and self-assessment strategies to foster teacher growth.
    • Learn practical tips to build accountability and maintain momentum between sessions.
    • Explore simple yet effective follow-up methods to sustain progress and ensure lasting change.

    Hit play now to learn how to transform your professional development sessions into powerful catalysts for long-term change in your school or district.

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


    Ready to design your math improvement plan with guidance, support and using structure? Learn how to follow our 4 stage process. http://makemathmoments.com/discovery/ 


    Show Notes Page.


    Love the show? Text us your big takeaway!

    Empower Your Students (and Teachers) Using A Professional Learning Plan That Sparks Engagement, Fuels Deep Learning, and Ignites Action!
    https://makemathmoments.com/make-math-moments-district-mentorship-program/ 

    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.

    7 November 2024, 10:00 am
  • 28 minutes
    Teaching Multiplication and Division: 10 Must Have Tools - An Interview with Dr. Nikki Newton

    How do you help students master multiplication and division while keeping them engaged and confident?

    In this episode, Dr. Nikki Newton shares how relationship-building and effective teaching tools can lower students' fear of math and boost their fact fluency, especially in multiplication and division. Discover strategies that directly address the challenge of making math approachable and accessible for all learners.

    By tuning in, you'll learn:

    • How to lower students' anxiety around math and make learning more enjoyable.
    • Why relationship-building is the key to unlocking students' potential.
    • Practical tools for teaching multiplication and division that go beyond memorization and focus on deeper understanding.

    Ready to transform your math teaching and help students thrive? Hit play and discover Dr. Nikki’s must-have strategies now!

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


    Ready to design your math improvement plan with guidance, support and using structure? Learn how to follow our 4 stage process. http://makemathmoments.com/discovery/ 


    Show Notes Page.

    Love the show? Text us your big takeaway!

    Empower Your Students (and Teachers) Using A Professional Learning Plan That Sparks Engagement, Fuels Deep Learning, and Ignites Action!
    https://makemathmoments.com/make-math-moments-district-mentorship-program/ 

    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.

    4 November 2024, 10:00 am
  • 13 minutes 54 seconds
    Two Components You’re Missing For Consistent Math Strategy Adoption

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

    Ready to design your math improvement plan with guidance, support and using structure? Learn how to follow our 4 stage process. http://makemathmoments.com/discovery/ 


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


    Ever wonder why teachers' implementation of the strategies you've worked so hard to teach them are not consistent? You're not alone!

    In this episode, we dive into two major barriers preventing math educators from fully adopting the practices you know will make a difference. You'll learn why professional development can fall flat and what key components need to be in place to make lasting changes in classrooms.

    By listening, you'll discover:

    • The critical follow-up step most professional development programs miss.
    • How to eliminate time-wasting meetings by setting clear, long-term goals.
    • Practical tips to optimize your support systems for better implementation and teacher engagement.

    Ready to break through those barriers? Hit play now and start building a more effective math program today!

    Love the show? Text us your big takeaway!

    Empower Your Students (and Teachers) Using A Professional Learning Plan That Sparks Engagement, Fuels Deep Learning, and Ignites Action!
    https://makemathmoments.com/make-math-moments-district-mentorship-program/ 

    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.

    31 October 2024, 9:00 am
  • 31 minutes 28 seconds
    Why Early Math Matters & How All Grade Level Teachers Need to Hear This: An Interview with Sue Looney

    How can we blend curiosity, deep understanding of the stages of counting to transform early math learning?


    In this episode of the Making Math Moments That Matter podcast, Sue Looney joins hosts Kyle Pearce and Jon Orr to share her personal journey and highlights the importance of curiosity-driven learning, especially in early childhood mathematics. Many educators face the challenge of moving beyond rote memorization, especially when teaching foundational concepts like counting. This episode addresses how understanding the stages of counting and fostering curiosity can set the stage for future mathematical success.

    Whether you're an early childhood educator or someone looking to strengthen your teaching approach, this episode provides practical strategies for assessing students' understanding of numbers and supporting them through critical learning phases.

    • Discover why curiosity is key to unlocking a deeper understanding of math concepts.
    • Learn how to assess students' counting abilities and build a solid foundation for their mathematical growth.
    • Gain practical strategies for incorporating counting tasks that go beyond memorization and promote critical thinking.

    Tune in now to explore how fostering curiosity and returning to foundational concepts like counting can transform your students' math journey!

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


    Ready to design your math improvement plan with guidance, support and using structure? Learn how to follow our 4 stage process. http://makemathmoments.com/discovery/ 


    Show Notes Page.

    Love the show? Text us your big takeaway!

    Empower Your Students (and Teachers) Using A Professional Learning Plan That Sparks Engagement, Fuels Deep Learning, and Ignites Action!
    https://makemathmoments.com/make-math-moments-district-mentorship-program/ 

    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.

    28 October 2024, 10:00 am
  • 4 minutes 45 seconds
    What Your Math PD sessions Have Been Missing | Effective Mathematics Coaching and Training

    Ever wonder how to make your teaching or PD sessions more impactful? Teaming up with a colleague might be the answer!

    Yvette Lehman will convince you that team teaching and co-presenting provide invaluable opportunities for real-time feedback, deeper student engagement, and dynamic facilitation. 

    With two educators working together, you can read the room more effectively, adjust on the fly, and improve the learning experience for everyone involved.

    Imagine being able to tackle tough questions confidently, pivot your lesson when needed, and enhance your facilitation skills with the help of a trusted colleague. 

    The dual perspectives and collaborative reflection in team teaching lead to more responsive and effective teaching, whether in the classroom or during professional development sessions.

    Ready to level up your facilitation skills? Partner with a colleague for your next class or PD session and see the powerful impact of collaboration in action!


    K-12 Math Coordinators, Coaches, Directors and Math Leaders. Get Professional Development Support from Make Math Moments

    Learn how you can create, coordinate, and implement an aligned school and district math action plan for improved student success. 

    So that you can create long term sustainable student success in mathematics and proficiently & pedagogically strong educators.


    Book a call with us to learn how we can not only help you craft, refine and implement your district math learning goals, but also provide all of the professional learning supports your educators need to grow at the speed of their learning. 

    Love the show? Text us your big takeaway!

    Empower Your Students (and Teachers) Using A Professional Learning Plan That Sparks Engagement, Fuels Deep Learning, and Ignites Action!
    https://makemathmoments.com/make-math-moments-district-mentorship-program/ 

    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.

    24 October 2024, 9:00 am
  • 35 minutes 31 seconds
    Rethinking How We Teach & Learn Fractions

    Why do so many students struggle with fractions and how do we make math concepts stick beyond rote memorization?

    This episode is for educators looking to move beyond the frustration and confusion of teaching and learning fractions. We speak with Tara Flynn and Shelley Yearley, two co-authors of the book Rethinking Fractions. 

    Tune in now and learn how a deeper understanding of fractions and a focus on student ownership can make math more meaningful and engaging.

    You’ll: 

    • Gain insights from educators who’ve experienced both the pitfalls and rewards of teaching fractions in new and transformative ways.
    • Discover practical strategies to shift from memorization to conceptual understanding, especially with unit fractions and counting strategies.
    • Learn about upcoming opportunities to engage with like-minded educators and access resources that make teaching fractions approachable and effective.

    Tune in to this episode of Making Math Moments That Matter to revolutionize your approach to teaching fractions and inspire deeper mathematical understanding in your students!

    Show Notes Page

    How are you ensuring that you support those educators who need a nudge to spark a focus on growing their pedagogical-content knowledge? 


    What about opportunities for those who are eager and willing to elevate their practice, but do not have the support? 


    Book a call with our District Improvement Program Team to learn how we can not only help you craft, refine and implement your district math learning goals, but also provide all of the professional learning supports your educators need to grow at the speed of their learning. 


    Book a short conversation with our team now


    Love the show? Text us your big takeaway!

    Empower Your Students (and Teachers) Using A Professional Learning Plan That Sparks Engagement, Fuels Deep Learning, and Ignites Action!
    https://makemathmoments.com/make-math-moments-district-mentorship-program/ 

    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.

    21 October 2024, 9:00 am
  • 20 minutes 32 seconds
    How To Choose A Core Math Curriculum Resource For Your School | District’s Math Program

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

    Ready to design your math improvement plan with guidance, support and using structure? Learn how to follow our 4 stage process. http://makemathmoments.com/discovery/ 


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


    Struggling to select the perfect math curriculum for your school?

    Selecting a core resource or curriculum for your math program is no small task. It can feel overwhelming and high-stakes, especially when considering the long-term impact on students and teachers alike. In this episode, Jon Orr and Yvette Lehman break down the essential steps and considerations to help you navigate this critical decision-making process with confidence.


    Listen to discover:

    1. Why having a clear vision is essential for choosing the right curriculum that aligns with your goals.
    2. How to balance the need for a flexible resource that teachers will love with the goal of meaningful instructional impact.
    3. The importance of building a solid foundation that allows teachers to innovate and engage students effectively.


    Ready to make curriculum decisions that will truly transform math learning? Listen now to gain actionable insights and start building a stronger math program today!

    Show Notes Page

    Love the show? Text us your big takeaway!

    Empower Your Students (and Teachers) Using A Professional Learning Plan That Sparks Engagement, Fuels Deep Learning, and Ignites Action!
    https://makemathmoments.com/make-math-moments-district-mentorship-program/ 

    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.

    17 October 2024, 9:00 am
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