Making Problem-Based Math Accessible for Every Student
The Proficiency Project helps K-8 educators strengthen problem-based instruction so every student can access grade-level math.
Designed for classrooms serving students with unfinished learning, English language learners, and students with IEPs.
Teachers implementing problem-based math often face a difficult reality.
Students arrive with different levels of readiness.
Some struggle with reading comprehension.
Others lack the foundational skills needed to begin the task.
But the challenge isn’t our students.
It’s about empowering teachers to deliver adaptable and accessible grade-level math instruction.
Creating Access for All Learners
The Proficiency Project helps educators add fluency, explicit instruction, and additional practice to high-quality instructional materials (HQIM), like Illustrative Mathematics®, that allow students to successfully engage with and master grade-level content.
This approach is especially powerful for:
Students with significant skill gaps
English learners
Students with IEPs
We maintain the rigor, language routines, and problem-based structure of Illustrative Mathematics® lessons.
The difference is that we make grade-level math accessible to all students.
The Proficiency Project Framework
A structured framework that strengthens problem-based math instruction and improves access to grade-level mathematics.
Fluency
Build automaticity and strengthen foundational math skills.
Teacher-Led Instruction
Explicit modeling and guided practice help students access problem-based tasks.
Independent Practice
Independent practice consolidates learning and builds mastery.
The Proficiency Project is for…
Teachers Using Illustrative Mathematics®
Strengthen lessons with explicit instruction, fluency routines, and scaffolds.
Instructional Coaches
Support teachers with a consistent framework for planning, modeling, and observing math instruction.
School & District Leaders
Align instructional practice across classrooms and strengthen Tier 1 math instruction.
The Proficiency Lab
Coming Soon.
Everything you need to bring The Proficiency Project to your classrooms.
Get on-demand access to implementation guidance, lesson structure walkthroughs, and practical strategies that make problem-based learning accessible to every student.
✔ On-Demand access to professional development on your own time from the comfort of your home.
✔ Step-by-step video lessons modeling explicit instruction, the Skill Focus graphic organizer and The Proficiency Project Framework.
✔ Guided walkthroughs of common misconceptions and intervention strategies.
✔ Build confidence and expertise with our growing video library covering instruction, learning science, classroom management, and more!
Resources
Ready to implement the Proficiency Project in your classroom? Download our free materials for teachers and school leaders.