Why “Fidelity” Might Be Hurting Your Momentum In Math Improvement

Making Math Moments That Matter

You're rolling out a math resource across your district—but you’re noticing that some classrooms feel scripted and disconnected from student thinking. What’s going wrong?

In this episode, we reflect on a powerful insight from Dr. Crystal Watson’s summit presentation—one that’s still resonating with us weeks later. We dig into the difference between fidelity and integrity in math instruction, and why rigidly adhering to a curriculum as written can actually limit student thinking, teacher agency, and culturally responsive practices. Together, we explore how a shift toward integrity—teaching with purpose, understanding, and flexibility—can help educators honor the design of high-quality resources while still responding authentically to their students' needs.

Listeners will walk away with:

• A clear distinction between curriculum fidelity and instructional integrity in math
• Real classroom examples that show how “fidelity” can stifle or support learning
• Insights on supporting teacher autonomy without losing coherence
• How to use staff meetings and PLC time to build shared understanding of math instruction
• Language you can bring back to your team to deepen instructional conversations

Tune in as we reflect on what it really means to lead math improvement with purpose, clarity, and respect for the expertise in every classroom.

Not sure what matters most when designing math improvement plans? Take this assessment and get a free customized report: https://makemathmoments.com/grow/

Math coordinators and leaders – Ready to design your math improvement plan with guidance, support and using structure? Learn how to follow our 4 stage process. https://growyourmathprogram.com

Looking to supplement your curriculum with problem based lessons and units? Make Math Moments Problem Based Lessons & Units

Show Notes Page

Love the show? Text us your big takeaway!

Are you wondering how to create K-12 math lesson plans that leave students so engaged they don’t want to stop exploring your math curriculum when the bell rings? In their podcast, Kyle Pearce and Jon Orr—founders of MakeMathMoments.com—share over 19 years of experience inspiring K-12 math students, teachers, and district leaders with effective math activities, engaging resources, and innovative math leadership strategies. Through a 6-step framework, they guide K-12 classroom teachers and district math coordinators on building a strong, balanced math program that grows student and teacher impact. Each week, gain fresh ideas, feedback, and practical strategies to feel more confident and motivate students to see the beauty in math. Start making math moments today by listening to Episode #139: "Making Math Moments From Day 1 to 180.