Empowering Educators Archives | Discovery Education Nurture Curiosity Thu, 06 Nov 2025 17:57:13 +0000 en-US hourly 1 https://wordpress.org/?v=6.8.3 Using DreamBox Math Purposefully to Maximize Student Support https://www.discoveryeducation.com/resources/success-stories/using-dreambox-math-purposefully-to-maximize-student-support/ Thu, 30 Oct 2025 15:44:23 +0000 https://www.discoveryeducation.com/?post_type=resources&p=202125 San José Unified School District Uses DreamBox Math to Adapt Instruction and Support Every Learner San José Unified School District San José, California Meet Taylor Swenson, San José Unified School District (SJUSD)’s district instructional coach for elementary math. Dedicated to the district’s mission and student success, Swenson believes that the best education happens when teachers […]

The post Using DreamBox Math Purposefully to Maximize Student Support appeared first on Discovery Education.

]]>

San José Unified School District Uses DreamBox Math to Adapt Instruction and Support Every Learner

SJUSD Logo FullColor Name

San José Unified School District

San José, California

Meet Taylor Swenson, San José Unified School District (SJUSD)’s district instructional coach for elementary math. Dedicated to the district’s mission and student success, Swenson believes that the best education happens when teachers are prepared, supported, and eager to help their students. She has built that environment within her own network of educators. Deeply involved with all elementary teachers, she ensures they receive comprehensive training and professional development for every new curriculum product introduced.

As the largest school district in Santa Clara County, SJUSD serves a diverse population with varied needs. Any educational product it adopts must adapt to many different classroom situations while consistently producing positive results. DreamBox offered a promising solution.

Why DreamBox Math?

Searching for a supplemental math program that could deliver deeper insight into student comprehension—and help educators track student progress—San José Unified chose DreamBox Math. Its Intelligent Adaptive Learning technology engages students and strengthens understanding.

Although teachers were enthusiastic, many were initially unsure how to use the program most effectively. To smooth the learning curve, SJUSD provides ongoing professional development. Today, DreamBox Math is used district-wide in a variety of ways, complementing core instruction and illustrating the need for tools as adaptable as SJUSD’s educators.

DreamBox Math helps students understand the background information; making them stronger mathematically, conceptually, and helping them fully understand the material. That’s what I like. They’re walking away with a deeper understanding of math.
de quote left square filled
Amber Stagi
Grade 4-5 Teacher

Classroom Snapshots

Amber Stagi: Mixed Grade Classroom Model

Amber Stagi teaches a mixed-grade math class of fourth- and fifth-grade students, spanning a wide range of abilities. To use class time effectively while still giving each student attention, she and Taylor Swenson implemented a Collaborative Learning Experiences workshop model. Students rotate through activities, including DreamBox Math, while Stagi works with small groups.

Most importantly, DreamBox Math’s detailed reporting lets Stagi identify each student’s strengths and skill gaps, guiding targeted one-on-one or small-group instruction. She shares each student’s report, letting them choose focus areas. Involving students in the process increases engagement and ownership of learning.

What I’ve really tried to do is engage students in multiple ways every day—mathematically—by using DreamBox Math, by collaborating with them as partners in decision-making, and by creating collaborative learning experiences. The goal is to give every student more opportunities for success, rather than letting anyone feel like they’re just the kid in the back row who’s not good at math.
de quote left square filled
Amber Stagi
Grade 4-5 Teacher
Katy Bailey: Special Education Classroom

Special-education teacher Katy Bailey leads a class of 12 students whose math skills span kindergarten through fifth-grade levels. Previous apps lacked the rigor or growth-tracking her students needed, causing repetition and frustration.

DreamBox Math changed that. After training, Bailey grouped students by level and rotated them through four learning stations—including DreamBox Math. Students quickly embraced the program and now look forward to station rotations. Bailey credits DreamBox’s adaptive lessons and clear progress data with boosting enthusiasm and willingness to try new challenges.

The longer I use DreamBox Math, the more helpful it is. After the first year of using DreamBox Math, the district started offering training and I went to every training offered to learn about every feature. Once I had that under my belt, I was able to start using it with more purpose and knowledge and began to notice how useful the tool is in the classroom.
de quote left square filled
Katy Bailey
Special Education Teacher
Elizabeth Nevarez: Bilingual Instruction

Elizabeth Nevarez, a third-grade bilingual teacher, teaches math and social studies in Spanish and other subjects in English. Her tight-knit class often helps and encourages one another.

Years ago, Nevarez added DreamBox Math as a flexible independent activity. Her students use the Spanish version, mastering math concepts with language-agnostic virtual manipulatives while building vocabulary for next year’s English-language math course.

Using DreamBox Math reports and dashboards, Nevarez assigns lessons that align with core curriculum and individual needs. Students aim for five lessons weekly, track progress, celebrate milestones, and involve their parents through online reports. This year has yielded her students’ greatest growth yet.

I really do appreciate the fact that our district has this program implemented because I really have seen a great change in my students’ math abilities and skills. So, it’s been a great asset to our classroom.
de quote left square filled
Elizabeth Nevarez
3rd Grade Teacher
At The Point of Purposefulness

Innovative districts need innovative tools that match their educators’ talents and the high standards they set. SJUSD found an ideal math partner in DreamBox. By coupling robust professional development with DreamBox’s adaptive technology, the district delivers exactly the support its educators and students need. When innovative educators have innovative tools, opportunity grows exponentially. SJUSD’s story shows the powerful outcomes possible when teachers receive the right support, tools, and encouragement. The mission of the educator is never finished, but SJUSD’s ongoing efforts prove that new benefits and positive results are always within reach.

Quick Facts

San José USD at a Glance

  • 41 schools serving 32,00+ students in PreK-8 
  • 6,500+ English Language Learners
  • 3,800+ Special Education Students

Share This Story

Embark on Your Impact Journey with Discovery Education

Learn More About how DreamBox Math Supports All Classroom Models

The post Using DreamBox Math Purposefully to Maximize Student Support appeared first on Discovery Education.

]]> SJUSD-Logo-FullColor-Name de-quote-left-square-filled de-quote-left-square-filled de-quote-left-square-filled de-quote-left-square-filled Video: Literacy and Math Strategies in the U.S.: What’s Working and What Isn’t https://www.discoveryeducation.com/resources/videos/experts-discuss-literacy-and-math-strategies/ Wed, 01 Oct 2025 17:18:28 +0000 https://www.discoveryeducation.com/?post_type=resources&p=199996 Webinar: Across America’s Classrooms: Literacy and Math Strategies to Engage, Adapt, and Accelerate We asked four passionate leaders in K–12 education to join us for a conversation about how literacy and math instruction is affecting student achievement in the U.S.:  Dr. Emily Hare, Director of PreK–12 Mathematics for Guilford County Schools   Dr. Amanda Malone, K–12 […]

The post Video: Literacy and Math Strategies in the U.S.: What’s Working and What Isn’t appeared first on Discovery Education.

]]>

Webinar: Across America's Classrooms: Literacy and Math Strategies to Engage, Adapt, and Accelerate

We asked four passionate leaders in K–12 education to join us for a conversation about how literacy and math instruction is affecting student achievement in the U.S.: 

  • Dr. Emily Hare, Director of PreK–12 Mathematics for Guilford County Schools  
  • Dr. Amanda Malone, K–12 Literacy Director for the Mississippi Department of Education  
  • Dr. Melissa Sadorf, Executive Director of the National Rural Education Association and professor at Northern Arizona University  
  • Dr. Rufus Hill, State Director of K–12 Mathematics Coaching for the Mississippi Department of Education 

Our lively, insightful discussion explored effective strategies and areas that need more focus in schools and districts of all kinds—rural, suburban, and urban. Our experts also shared real-world success stories and what led to the gains that students have made. 

Watch the video to get the details on these topics and much more, like the role of supplemental resources and innovation in the classroom. 

The post Video: Literacy and Math Strategies in the U.S.: What’s Working and What Isn’t appeared first on Discovery Education.

]]> 5 Ways Principals Achieve More with Discovery Education https://www.discoveryeducation.com/resources/guides/5-ways-principals-achieve-more-with-discovery-education/ Thu, 07 Aug 2025 12:31:50 +0000 https://www.discoveryeducation.com/?page_id=193244 How Discovery Education Can Help Principals Meet Critical Goals Principals balance many high-stakes priorities on a daily basis. Most importantly, they ensure an engaging, productive learning environment with programs that ensure the success of teachers and students.  Download our free resources that reveals five effective way that Discovery Education helps principals meet critical goals like […]

The post 5 Ways Principals Achieve More with Discovery Education appeared first on Discovery Education.

]]>

How Discovery Education Can Help Principals Meet Critical Goals

Principals balance many high-stakes priorities on a daily basis. Most importantly, they ensure an engaging, productive learning environment with programs that ensure the success of teachers and students. 

Download our free resources that reveals five effective way that Discovery Education helps principals meet critical goals like math and reading proficiency, teacher well-being, and more.

principal flyer thumbnail

Becoming an Effective Leader

How Discovery Education Supports Critical Goals of Principals

The post 5 Ways Principals Achieve More with Discovery Education appeared first on Discovery Education.

]]> principal-flyer-thumbnail 2024-25 State of Education Report https://www.discoveryeducation.com/resources/guides/2024-25-education-insights-report/ Thu, 07 Aug 2025 01:31:55 +0000 https://www.discoveryeducation.com/?post_type=resources&p=192831 Learning Today, Leading Tomorrow This groundbreaking research report goes beyond test scores and headlines to reveal the real drivers shaping today’s educational landscape. Based on surveys from over 1,000 educators, parents, and students, the findings uncover both encouraging trends and significant challenges facing K-12 learning communities. From declining student engagement to the growing skills gap, […]

The post 2024-25 State of Education Report appeared first on Discovery Education.

]]>

Learning Today, Leading Tomorrow

This groundbreaking research report goes beyond test scores and headlines to reveal the real drivers shaping today’s educational landscape. Based on surveys from over 1,000 educators, parents, and students, the findings uncover both encouraging trends and significant challenges facing K-12 learning communities. From declining student engagement to the growing skills gap, this report provides the insights educational leaders need to make informed decisions.

Education Insights Pages

Education Insights 2024-2025

Access comprehensive research revealing what superintendents, teachers, parents, and students really think about the current state of K-12 education

education insights 2024 cover mock up right

What You'll Learn

  • Why nearly three-quarters of students feel there aren’t enough opportunities to be curious in the classroom
  • How learning loss continues to impact classrooms, with two-thirds of teachers noting wider skill ranges than five years ago
  • Proven approaches to increase student engagement and future readiness
  • Data-driven recommendations for meeting teachers and students where they are

Continue Your Learning

Ready to dive deeper into educational trends? Download the complete Education Insights 2024-2025 report for comprehensive findings and actionable recommendations, or explore our professional development webinars that help implement these research-backed strategies in your classroom.

The post 2024-25 State of Education Report appeared first on Discovery Education.

]]> Education-Insights-Pages education-insights-2024-cover-mock-up-right The Mississippi Miracle: Key Strategies for Improving Reading Achievement with Dr. Carey M. Wright https://www.discoveryeducation.com/resources/videos/the-mississippi-miracle/ Thu, 07 Aug 2025 01:31:52 +0000 https://www.discoveryeducation.com/?post_type=resources&p=194411 Fueled by the efforts of former State Superintendent of Education, Dr. Carey Wright, “The Mississippi Miracle” has become a model for states and districts working to adopt new reading standards and improve student outcomes.  Join us to hear Dr. Wright discuss how Mississippi became a leader in reading recovery and essential strategies to drive your […]

The post The Mississippi Miracle: Key Strategies for Improving Reading Achievement with Dr. Carey M. Wright appeared first on Discovery Education.

]]>

Fueled by the efforts of former State Superintendent of Education, Dr. Carey Wright, “The Mississippi Miracle” has become a model for states and districts working to adopt new reading standards and improve student outcomes. 

Join us to hear Dr. Wright discuss how Mississippi became a leader in reading recovery and essential strategies to drive your district’s reading achievement. 

The post The Mississippi Miracle: Key Strategies for Improving Reading Achievement with Dr. Carey M. Wright appeared first on Discovery Education.

]]> Top 5 Reasons to Prioritize Ease of Use for EdTech https://www.discoveryeducation.com/resources/guides/top-5-reasons-to-prioritize-ease-of-use-for-edtech/ Thu, 07 Aug 2025 01:31:49 +0000 https://www.discoveryeducation.com/?page_id=193245 Prioritize the Ease of Use for EdTech Solutions Education software plays an integral role in today’s classrooms, enhancing teaching and learning experiences for both students and educators. As school principals search for technology solutions that work best for their staff and students, it is critical to consider the ease of use of technology solutions.   Download […]

The post Top 5 Reasons to Prioritize Ease of Use for EdTech appeared first on Discovery Education.

]]>

Prioritize the Ease of Use for EdTech Solutions

Education software plays an integral role in today’s classrooms, enhancing teaching and learning experiences for both students and educators. As school principals search for technology solutions that work best for their staff and students, it is critical to consider the ease of use of technology solutions.  

Download this free resource to learn the top five reasons education leaders should prioritize a seamless and effective solution that can support students and staff quickly. 

Top 5 Reasons pages

Top Reasons to Prioritize Ease of Use for EdTech

Prioritize seamless and effective solutions to support students and staff.

The post Top 5 Reasons to Prioritize Ease of Use for EdTech appeared first on Discovery Education.

]]> Top 5 Reasons-pages Curiosity Assessment Rubric: Four Essential Traits for Student Growth https://www.discoveryeducation.com/resources/guides/curiosity-rubric/ Thu, 07 Aug 2025 01:31:49 +0000 https://www.discoveryeducation.com/?post_type=resources&p=193306 A Comprehensive Framework for Observing and Assessing Student Curiosity Developed by Dr. Tim Hudson, Ph.D., this research-based rubric provides educators with a structured approach to evaluate and nurture curiosity across four key dimensions: questioning, skepticism, interest, and mindset. Perfect for student self-reflection, growth tracking, and curriculum planning. Curiosity Assessment Rubric Get this free assessment tool […]

The post Curiosity Assessment Rubric: Four Essential Traits for Student Growth appeared first on Discovery Education.

]]>

A Comprehensive Framework for Observing and Assessing Student Curiosity

Developed by Dr. Tim Hudson, Ph.D., this research-based rubric provides educators with a structured approach to evaluate and nurture curiosity across four key dimensions: questioning, skepticism, interest, and mindset. Perfect for student self-reflection, growth tracking, and curriculum planning.

de curiosity rubric mockup thumbnail

Curiosity Assessment Rubric

Get this free assessment tool to measure and nurture curiosity in your classroom.

The post Curiosity Assessment Rubric: Four Essential Traits for Student Growth appeared first on Discovery Education.

]]> de-curiosity-rubric-mockup-thumbnail Pop Quiz: How do teachers spend their time? https://www.discoveryeducation.com/resources/interactives/how-do-teachers-spend-their-time-pop-quiz/ Thu, 07 Aug 2025 01:31:48 +0000 https://www.discoveryeducation.com/?post_type=resources&p=193489 Do you know which areas teachers report spending the most time each week? Test your knowledge and learn critical ways you can maximize teachers’ time.  Discovery Education programs help your teachers save time, so they can focus on engaging and connecting with students to drive academic outcomes.  Trouble viewing? Click here.

The post Pop Quiz: How do teachers spend their time? appeared first on Discovery Education.

]]>

Do you know which areas teachers report spending the most time each week? Test your knowledge and learn critical ways you can maximize teachers’ time. 

Discovery Education programs help your teachers save time, so they can focus on engaging and connecting with students to drive academic outcomes. 

Trouble viewing? Click here.

The post Pop Quiz: How do teachers spend their time? appeared first on Discovery Education.

]]> Power of Curiosity Webinar https://www.discoveryeducation.com/resources/videos/power-of-curiosity-webinar/ Wed, 06 Aug 2025 23:56:42 +0000 https://www.discoveryeducation.com/?post_type=resources&p=193598 The post Power of Curiosity Webinar appeared first on Discovery Education.

]]>

The post Power of Curiosity Webinar appeared first on Discovery Education.

]]> Maximizing Instructional Time to Meet the Needs of All Students https://www.discoveryeducation.com/resources/videos/maximizing-instructional-time/ Wed, 06 Aug 2025 22:52:13 +0000 https://www.discoveryeducation.com/?post_type=resources&p=193732 Students and educators have faced significant challenges and shifts over the past few years, exacerbating the pre-existing achievement gap. To help support student needs, educators must provide all student populations with diverse intervention efforts for both math and reading. But, how do we do that without overextending educators’ planning time and interrupting classroom time? And, how […]

The post Maximizing Instructional Time to Meet the Needs of All Students appeared first on Discovery Education.

]]>
Students and educators have faced significant challenges and shifts over the past few years, exacerbating the pre-existing achievement gap. To help support student needs, educators must provide all student populations with diverse intervention efforts for both math and reading.
 
But, how do we do that without overextending educators’ planning time and interrupting classroom time? And, how do we ensure educators have the tools and knowledge necessary to meet the needs of all their students?
 
Watch a timely conversation with school leaders about how they are making the most of planning and instructional time with the right support systems in place to maximize impact. You’ll leave with ideas for quick implementation and inspiration for future planning to ensure you are able to equip your educators with the knowledge and skills necessary, while still protecting classroom time.
maximize instructional time video thumbnail

Moderated by:

Picture of Andrea Arthur

Andrea Arthur

Partner Success Manager, Discovery Education
Former Assistant and Associate Principal
Texas

Featured Speakers:

Picture of Adriana Arellano

Adriana Arellano

Principal of Dr. Rodriguez Elementary in Harlingen, TX

Picture of Dr. Priscilla Johnson

Dr. Priscilla Johnson

Principal of Joseph R. Pye Elementary in Ladson, SC

Picture of Jessi Aue

Jessi Aue

Principal of Emerson Elementary School in Owosso, MI

The post Maximizing Instructional Time to Meet the Needs of All Students appeared first on Discovery Education.

]]> maximize-instructional-time-video-thumbnail Picture of Andrea Arthur Picture of Adriana Arellano Picture of Dr. Priscilla Johnson Picture of Jessi Aue