INTERNAL PD INFO: Learning Series for Grades 4-9 Mathematics Supporting Collaboration Between Special Education and General Education 

Are you looking to increase teaching collaboration between general educators and special educators in early mathematics?  The ADE/ESS/Academic Achievement and Inclusive Practices team is excited to announce a new professional learning series designed to support five school teams as they seek to improve outcomes for students with disabilities in Mathematics. The learning series includes in-person training, coaching, and follow-up virtual sessions.  See flyer.

Teaching Partners: Sparking Curiosity with Problem Solving, Raising Student Voice
Grades 4-9

Learning Series Description  
Join us as we explore how to empower students to delve into problem-solving enthusiastically. We will use low-floor/high-ceiling tasks rooted in routines and lesson structures that develop language and mathematics authentically and purposefully. Cecilio Dimas will lead participants through learning experiences that utilize Math Language Routines. You will gain practical strategies that you can use right away in your classrooms and develop structures for lasting learning for students.  Additional coaching support for administrators and instructional coaches on feedback and implementation practices will be provided as well. 

Dates for In-Person Learning Sessions for All Participants:  

• Two-day in-person sessions on September 17–18, 2025, from 8:30 am – 4:30 pm each day in Tempe, AZ.  

Dates for Two Virtual Learning Sessions for All Participants  

• Zoom Webinar on Tuesday, August 26, 2025, from 4:00 pm–6:00 pm.  
• Zoom Webinar on Thursday, November 6, 2025, from 4:00 pm–6:00 pm.  

Dates for Three Virtual Learning Sessions for Coaches and Administrators:  

• Zoom Webinars on dates to be determined for October 2025, December 2025, and January 2026.   

Fee  
$50 per participant  

School team requirements (up to 6 members):  

• At least one general education teacher and one special education teacher teaching the same grade level  

• One instructional coach, specialist, or teacher leader  

• One administrator  

• Two additional teammates can be a general education teacher, special education teacher, instructional coach, and/or administrator.  

Applications will be considered on a first-come, first-served basis. Applicants are due by July 1, 2025. Applicants will be notified about the result of their application on or before July 8, 2025. Apply for the Teaching Partnerships Learning Series  

About Cecilio Dimas  

Cecilio Dimas is Executive Director of the Silicon Valley Mathematics Initiative (SVMI). Cecilio has served as a mathematics coordinator and has supported districts in their efforts to implement the Common Core State Standards in Mathematics. He has taught at both elementary and secondary levels. SVMI has played a vital role in his development as a learner, teacher, coach, facilitator, and administrator. Cecilio enjoys working with students, teachers, and administrators and believes that fostering the development of critical-thinking, collaboration, and communication skills while nurturing language development and cultivating joy in the mathematics classroom is essential for all students to thrive in our local, national, and global communities.