Draft California Mathematics Framework Shortchanges STEM
Initial Analysis and Opinion about the 2021 Mathematics Framework
This was my initial analysis and expressed opinion about the 2021 California Mathematics Framework, which appeared on David Kristofferson’s EduIssues blog. I first heard about the new framework in late February, and I wanted to collect and share my thoughts while the public comment period was still open.
Before writing the article, I read through and studied the Framework in its entirety, so that I would be in a better position to speak to its many sections. I am interpreting the Framework based on my years of experience as a top STEM student, a tech employee, an educator at a variety of levels (both college and K-12), and most extensively, a private tutor. My math activism began when I filled a long-term substitute teacher role at my local high school two years ago. They were using the CPM math curriculum, and I saw firsthand the issues with its approach.
Since my article first appeared, it’s had a fair amount of circulation, and I’ve fielded a number of questions about it. I will be posting updates to share my more recent thoughts and answers to these questions, which reflect my evolving thoughts on some of the statements made in the original article, which focused more heavily on the mathematics than on the social concerns. And of course, I’ll be posting updates on the latest developments and breaking news about the 2021 Mathematics Framework.