Make Math Happen
Make Math Happen (formerly known as PD for the SOUL) is the podcast for educators ready to move with intention and teach with impact. Hosted by math coach and equity-focused educator Laneshia Boone, each episode bridges practice and purpose to help you design instruction that centers students, builds capacity, and makes learning stick—especially for those pushed to the margins.
Every week, you’ll get strategies that work in real classrooms, grounded reflections that challenge the status quo, and conversations with educators who are making bold moves in math education. From planning with purpose to using charts that anchor learning, from building strong routines to disrupting expired rules, this podcast is where meaningful math instruction comes to life.
You’ll walk away with ready-to-use tools, fresh insight, and the confidence to make every lesson count.
Because when we move with care, plan with clarity, and teach with courage, we make math happen.
Make Math Happen
Closing Gaps in Foundational Math Skills
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Dear Educator,
If you’ve ever felt the tension between where your students are and where they need to be, you’re not alone. Teaching grade-level content to students who aren’t quite there yet is one of the greatest challenges we face as educators. But here’s the truth: it’s possible. And not only is it possible—it’s necessary.
Closing foundational gaps while moving students forward requires a mindset shift. A growth mindset, not just for our students, but for ourselves. When we believe that students can learn, that gaps can be closed, and that every small step forward is worth celebrating, we create a classroom where progress thrives.
It also requires leveraging technology effectively—not as a crutch, but as a tool that amplifies our instruction. The right tech can provide just-in-time scaffolds, targeted practice, and data that informs our next move. But no program replaces the power of a skilled, intentional teacher.
And let’s talk about the pacing guide. Yes, it’s there for a reason. Yes, it matters. But it should never weigh you down to the point that you’re rushing through content just to “cover” material. Teaching is about ensuring understanding, not just exposure. When we prioritize depth over speed, we set students up for long-term success.
Finally, we can’t pour from an empty cup. Seeking out professional development that sharpens our skills, deepens our content knowledge, and equips us with strategies that actually work is an investment in both our students and ourselves. The best teachers never stop learning.
So as you listen to today’s episode, I hope you walk away feeling seen, encouraged, and equipped. You are doing the work that matters most, and I’m honored to be on this journey with you.
With gratitude,
Laneshia
P.S.
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Build multiplication fluency through understanding with the Seeing Patterns, Building Power series. Two books now available on Amazon—plus check out my son’s new adventure novel, Anansi: Shadows of Myth and Mystery!
Thanks for tuning in to this episode of the Make Math Happen podcast! If you enjoyed today’s conversation, subscribe on your favorite listening platform, leave a review, and share this episode with your fellow educators.
You can also join the discussion and connect with me directly by clicking the link to join the Math Collective. Together, we’ll keep exploring practical strategies to transform classrooms and inspire students.
Remember, new episodes drop every Sunday at 9:00 am, so mark your calendars! Until next time, keep making math happen, and I’ll catch you in the next episode.
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