California Bets on Research-Backed Math Curriculum to Boost Student Understanding

By Thomas Moore

November 10, 2025

California’s classrooms may be on the cusp of a mathematical shift. The California Board of Education (BOE) today approved Heinemann’s California Math Expressions for K-6 classrooms statewide, a decision lauded by proponents as a move toward a more conceptual, research-driven approach to mathematics education. But beyond the official announcement, the adoption represents a confluence of factors – a state rethinking its math framework, a growing emphasis on equity, and a market eager for curricula that deliver tangible results.

California Math Expressions isn’t simply another textbook. It’s the culmination of a decade of research funded by the National Science Foundation and spearheaded by Dr. Karen Fuson, Professor Emerita of Learning Sciences at Northwestern University. Unlike traditional curricula often focused on rote memorization and procedural fluency, Math Expressions prioritizes conceptual understanding, problem-solving, and real-world application. The curriculum emphasizes “Math Talk,” collaborative learning, and building mathematical reasoning skills, all cornerstones of Dr. Fuson’s research.

“The goal is to move beyond simply ‘getting the right answer’ to truly understanding why the answer is correct,” explains an anonymous educational consultant who served on the state’s curriculum review committee. “This curriculum is built on a foundation of cognitive science, understanding how children actually learn mathematics.”

A Framework for Change

The BOE’s decision arrives at a pivotal moment for mathematics education in California. The state adopted a revised Mathematics Framework in July 2023, after a four-year revision process. This framework signaled a significant shift away from standardized testing-driven instruction toward a more holistic approach that emphasizes conceptual understanding, mathematical reasoning, and equitable access to learning.

The framework’s core principles – meaning-making, equity, inquiry-based instruction, and technology integration – are all reflected in California Math Expressions. The curriculum is explicitly aligned with the “Big Ideas” articulated in the framework, organizing mathematical concepts around interconnected themes rather than isolated skills.

“California has been deliberate in its move to redefine what successful math instruction looks like,” notes a school district administrator involved in the curriculum evaluation. “The framework isn't just about what we teach, but how we teach it. This curriculum supports that vision.”

A Competitive Landscape

The K-6 math curriculum market is a crowded one, dominated by established players like Houghton Mifflin Harcourt, McGraw Hill Education, and Pearson Education. California Math Expressions enters this competitive landscape at a time when districts are increasingly open to new approaches. While specific market share data isn’t readily available, the curriculum’s alignment with California’s new framework gives it a distinct advantage.

“Districts are looking for curricula that not only meet state standards but also address the evolving needs of their students,” says an anonymous curriculum specialist. “There’s a growing recognition that traditional approaches aren’t always effective, particularly for students from underrepresented backgrounds.”

Equity at the Forefront

Equity has emerged as a central theme in California’s education reform efforts. The new Mathematics Framework explicitly calls for instructional materials that are culturally responsive and accessible to all students, including English learners, students with disabilities, and those from diverse cultural backgrounds. California Math Expressions appears to address these concerns, incorporating strategies for differentiation and scaffolding to support all learners.

“The curriculum is designed to be inclusive and equitable,” says an anonymous teacher involved in piloting the program. “It provides supports for students who are struggling, while also challenging those who are ready to move ahead.”

Challenges Ahead

While the adoption of California Math Expressions is a positive step, challenges remain. Successfully implementing a new curriculum requires significant investment in professional development for teachers. Educators need training on how to effectively use the new materials, facilitate inquiry-based learning, and differentiate instruction to meet the needs of all students.

“Professional development is crucial,” emphasizes the district administrator. “Teachers need support to make this curriculum work effectively in their classrooms.”

Furthermore, the success of California Math Expressions will depend on ongoing evaluation and refinement. The state and districts need to monitor student progress, gather feedback from teachers, and make adjustments to the curriculum as needed.

“This isn’t a one-time fix,” says the curriculum specialist. “It’s an ongoing process of improvement.”

A Promising Future?

The approval of California Math Expressions represents more than just the adoption of a new curriculum. It signals a shift in how the state approaches mathematics education – a move toward a more conceptual, equitable, and research-driven approach. Whether this shift will translate into improved student outcomes remains to be seen. However, with ongoing investment in professional development and continuous evaluation, California Math Expressions has the potential to reshape math education in the Golden State for years to come. The coming years will be critical in determining whether this research-backed approach can unlock a deeper understanding of mathematics for all California students.