Making Math Moments That Matter

Atomic Habits For Math Educators & Coordinators: Why Summer Is Your Secret Weapon

Kyle Pearce & Jon Orr Episode 481

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If you’ve ever wondered what to actually do during small group time in math, this episode will give you a clear and practical way to support students without lowering expectations.

We built a simple Math Coherence Compass to help district and school leaders make aligned decisions around math—without adding another initiative. Get your free copy and training here https://makemathmoments.com/coherence-compass/

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

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


Yvette's Summer Task List.


Summer is often seen as a time to step away from school, recharge, and reset. But it can also be an opportunity to strengthen your mathematical thinking, explore new ideas, and build habits that support your growth as an educator—without turning your break into more work.


The key isn't filling your summer with professional development or adding more to your to-do list. It's about being intentional. Whether it's spending a few minutes each week exploring a visual pattern, solving a rich math problem with your family, or exposing yourself to new ideas through reading and diverse experiences, small habits can have a lasting impact. The goal isn't productivity for the sake of productivity—it's creating opportunities to stay curious, build mathematical proficiency, and return to the school year feeling energized and inspired. 


In this episode, you'll explore:

  • Why doing math regularly strengthens mathematical proficiency
  • How visual patterns and rich tasks can spark meaningful math conversations
  • Ways to build simple, sustainable summer habits around mathematics
  • Why increasing your inputs can broaden your thinking as an educator
  • The value of reading beyond math education and learning from other fields
  • How to balance growth, curiosity, and rejuvenation during the summer months


If you're looking for ways to make the most of your summer without sacrificing rest and recovery, this episode offers practical ideas for staying connected to mathematics, learning, and personal growth in a joyful and sustainable way.


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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.