TX SBOE takes critical step toward improving math outcomes
Texas 2036 commends the Texas State Board of Education’s preliminary approval of high quality math instructional materials today as an essential step to strengthen math instruction and provide students with the skills they need to succeed in the modern economy.
“This decision by the State Board of Education reflects a commitment to improving outcomes for Texas students,” said Gabe Grantham, Texas 2036 education policy advisor. “High-quality math instructional materials are a proven tool to help reverse troubling declines in math proficiency while empowering teachers with the curriculum they need to deliver effective instruction.”
Recent data on student achievement only serves to underscore the urgency of this decision. In 2024, only 40% of Texas students in grades 3-8 met grade-level expectations in math—a sharp decline from 48% in 2019, before the pandemic disrupted learning.
The declines grow even steeper for historically underserved student groups, with significant gaps persisting between economically disadvantaged students and their peers.
Moreover, only 49% of Texas students are considered college-ready in both reading and math, and one in four students are not graduating college or career ready.
“Math readiness is crucial for Texas students to compete in today’s skills-based economy,” Grantham added. “Texas’ leadership in making high-quality math curriculum available to schools is a vital step toward ensuring Texas classrooms have the means necessary to prepare our workforce of the future.”
Texas 2036 supports policies and solutions that strengthen the state’s education and workforce system. That includes addressing the decline in math with our ground-breaking Solving for X in Texas report and the implementation of evidence-based instructional materials.
HQIM offers rigorous, engaging math content for students. It also supports teachers with a comprehensive course curriculum, helping to reduce prep time, improve instruction and create better overall classroom outcomes.
“By advancing these materials forward, Texas is investing in its future workforce and its economic competitiveness,” said Grantham. “We look forward to working with education leaders and policymakers to maximize the impact of this decision for students across the state.”
Texas 2036 remains committed to supporting initiatives that improve educational outcomes and strengthen Texas’ position as a national leader in workforce readiness. With a final vote expected on Friday, Texas is one step closer to ensuring every school has access to high quality instructional math materials.