Middle School Math Momentum (M&M)

United Way of Metropolitan Dallas and SMU Launch Middle School Math Momentum Initiative in Lancaster ISD

Year-One Investment Establishes Foundation for Five-Year Strategy to Strengthen Math Achievement

Southern Methodist University (SMU) and the United Way of Metropolitan Dallas (UWMD) are launching Middle School Math Momentum (M&M), an innovative, community-centered initiative designed to improve mathematics outcomes for students in grades 4–8. Summer 2026 marks the start of a planned five-year partnership focused on creating sustainable improvements in middle school mathematics achievement.

The initiative brings together the expertise of three nationally recognized centers within SMU’s Simmons School of Education and Human Development—Research on Mathematics Education (RME), The Budd Center for Involving Communities in Education (TBC), and The Addy Foundation Center on Research and Evaluation (CORE)—working in collaboration with UWMD and Lancaster ISD.

A Comprehensive Approach to Math Success

Middle School Math Momentum represents a strategic shift from isolated interventions to a coordinated ecosystem approach that addresses the many factors influencing student achievement. The initiative recognizes that lasting improvements in math outcomes require aligned support for:

  • Students through evidence-based mathematics instruction and enrichment opportunities
  • Teachers through professional development, coaching, and instructional support
  • Families through engagement opportunities that build confidence in supporting math learning
  • Schools and Community Partners through coordinated efforts that reinforce high-quality math instruction

The initiative builds upon proven programs already operating across North Texas, including Heal, Play, Learn; Fraction Face Off; Promoting Algebra Readiness; Parent Zone; School Zone; West Dallas STEM School; and Active Playful Learning.

Key Goals and Outcomes

The long-term vision of M&M is to increase student readiness and success in advanced mathematics while strengthening the educational ecosystem that supports learning.

For Students

  • Improved performance on classroom assessments, STAAR, and End-of-Course exams
  • Increased Algebra I enrollment and success rates
  • Greater student engagement and confidence in mathematics
  • Improved attendance and persistence
  • Expanded participation in enrichment and out-of-school learning opportunities

For Teachers

  • Increased confidence and effectiveness in teaching mathematics
  • Stronger evidence-based instructional practices
  • Improved teacher retention

For Families

  • Greater confidence supporting math learning at home
  • Increased trust and engagement with schools
  • Stronger school-family relationships

Year One Focus

During the first year, partners will work closely with Lancaster ISD to co-design and implement a customized strategy aligned with district priorities and student needs. Activities will include:

  • Professional development for educators and school leaders
  • Mathematics interventions and support for students
  • Expanded after-school and summer learning opportunities
  • Family engagement and Parent Zone programming
  • Alignment of community-based organizations around math learning goals
  • Development of a comprehensive data and evaluation framework

Building a Sustainable Model

By bringing together schools, families, community organizations, and research-based educational practices, Middle School Math Momentum aims to create a scalable model for improving math achievement. The project reflects a shared commitment by SMU, UWMD, Lancaster ISD, and community partners to ensure that every student has access to the support, opportunities, and high-quality instruction needed to thrive in mathematics.