As the 2025–26 school year comes to a close, Independence Local Schools is celebrating a successful first year of implementing the Bridges in Mathematics curriculum across grades PreK–5. The new curriculum has brought an engaging, hands-on approach to math instruction that is helping students build confidence, strengthen problem-solving skills, and develop a deeper understanding of mathematical concepts.
One of the most visible and impactful components of the program is “Number Corner,” a daily 15–20 minute calendar-based math workout used in classrooms at Independence Primary School and throughout the district’s elementary grades. Through spiraling instruction, students revisit and reinforce important skills and concepts throughout the year, helping learning stick over time.
Each day, students participate in activities designed to strengthen computation fluency, counting, number sense, addition and subtraction, geometry, and mathematical reasoning. Teachers say the consistent routine and interactive format have helped students become more confident thinkers and active participants in math lessons.
The third-grade teachers said, “Bridges and Number Corner have helped students develop a deeper understanding of mathematical concepts in a fun and meaningful way. Students look forward to math each day as they search for patterns, share their personal strategies, and learn from classmates who may approach problems in different ways. This program has not only strengthened their math skills, but has also enhanced their speaking, listening, and critical-thinking abilities.”
Unlike traditional approaches that may focus primarily on getting the correct answer, Bridges in Mathematics emphasizes understanding the “why” behind mathematical thinking. Students use visual models, hands-on manipulatives, collaborative discussions, and problem-solving strategies to work through concepts in meaningful ways.
“One of the greatest strengths of the Bridges curriculum is the vertical alignment across grade levels,” says Assistant Superintendent of Curriculum, Instruction, and Assessments Natalie Matthews. “Skills intentionally build from one grade to the next, creating a logical progression of learning that improves student achievement over time. The program also supports teacher learning by clearly identifying what students need to learn, when concepts should be introduced, and how instruction can best support understanding. Most importantly, it establishes district-wide coherence, ensuring our instructional initiatives remain sustainable for years to come.”
The district adopted Bridges in Mathematics to support a more comprehensive and student-centered approach to learning. Prior to the start of the school year, all PreK–5 teachers completed extensive Bridges training. The professional development focused on empowering the whole child, designing valuable learning experiences, and growing together through collaboration as educators.
The curriculum also aligns with the district’s broader instructional goals of fostering critical thinking, inquiry, collaboration, and real-world problem-solving skills. Teachers across the district have embraced the opportunity to shift from rote memorization toward helping students truly understand and apply mathematics.
At the April 21 Board of Education meeting, the IPS staff and students presented highlights and favorite activities from the Bridges Math curriculum. “Our students did an amazing job presenting and sharing the ins and outs of Number Corner and some favorite Work Places,” said Principal Jodie Hughes, Independence Primary School.
At Independence Middle School, fifth graders build upon this philosophy through innovative approaches such as Building Thinking Classrooms in Mathematics and Mathematical Modeling and Reasoning courses that encourage students to collaborate, analyze, and apply math in authentic ways.
District leaders say the transition to Bridges has been overwhelmingly positive, with strong student engagement and encouraging academic growth already visible during the program’s first year.
“Math classrooms across our district look different today,” said Superintendent Kelli Cogan, Independence Local Schools. “Students are talking through problems, working together, using hands-on tools, and developing confidence in their abilities. We are excited about the foundation this curriculum is helping create for long-term student success.”
As the first year of implementation concludes, Independence Local Schools remains committed to continuing to strengthen mathematics instruction and providing students with engaging learning experiences that prepare them for the future.
The Board of Education approved Amplify Math Desmos curriculum at the April Board of Education meeting. The program will be implemented in grades 6 through Algebra 1 beginning in the 2026–27 school year. This curriculum aligns with the conceptual learning foundation established through Bridges and provides a strong, coherent progression of mathematical practices for our students.
“At the core of our work, curriculum, instruction, and assessment are intentionally aligned,” says Matthews. “Building a legacy of excellence means focusing on what matters most, strengthening the learning environment so students continue to grow and our staff are equipped to provide the highest quality learning experiences.”
