Original Vision

Realizing Achievement in Mathematics Performance, locally known as RAMP, was designed as a four-year local systemic change initiative for mathematics in Durham Public Schools in Durham, NC, a medium-sized urban school district. Durham Public Schools serves 31,000 students, 56% African American, 29% White, 9% Hispanic, and 6% Other. The Free and Reduced Lunch population is 40%, ranging from 10% at one elementary school to 97% at another elementary school. RAMP reaches 980 teachers of mathematics, grades K-12.

Elementary schools are implementing Investigations in Number, Data, and Space. Middle Schools are implementing Mathscape. The high schools are offering an integrated mathematics course sequence alongside a traditional sequence, with NSF-supported instructional materials, Contemporary Math in Context (Core Plus), in the integrated courses.

Our vision: All students are capable of learning challenging, meaningful mathematics. From its inception, RAMP has presented the simple message that mathematics should be meaningful and challenging and that all students are capable of learning mathematics. Our work has revolved around providing rich curriculum materials, equipping teachers to teach mathematics in a deep and meaningful way, and working to give all students opportunity to learn mathematics.

The goals of RAMP are:

• Professional Development
  Provide comprehensive staff development for all mathematics teachers in grades K-12 as they implement an instructional program and materials consistent with NCTM standards.
• Building Infrastructure & Community
  Create an infrastructure that supports ongoing, collegial professional development in mathematics education.
• Administrative & Community Support
  Build administrative and community support for continuous improvement in mathematics education.

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