Launching Math Pathways Coast to Coast
The 2026 Launch Years Initiative (LYI) conference brought together over 25 states and their representatives to advance math pathways development nationally. Catch the key moments in our short conference highlights video:
Last Updated: March 2026
Math pathways, an educational reform that prioritizes student opportunity, focuses on designing and implementing multiple math pathways for students beyond the traditional Algebra to Pre-Calculus path. By elevating state and system leaders from K–12 through higher ed, this movement has the potential to impact millions of students from coast to coast.
“We’ve done a lot of work to really have our higher ed system really consider, for each of the majors, what mathematics are required for students and why,” said Mike Spencer, secondary math specialist from the Utah State Board of Education.
Held on March 30–31, the annual convening’s theme, “Shared Goals, Shared Success: Advancing Math Pathways,” enabled LYI state members with an opportunity to refine their state priorities and goals, collaborate with other states in special interest groups (SIGs), and revisit operational goals and metrics for success.
Igniting New Strategies for Math Pathways
During the program’s two-day schedule, state teams also joined breakout sessions covering a variety of topics—from the latest innovations in new courses like Integrated Statistics and Quantitative Reasoning (ISQR), Quantitative Reasoning, and Data Science, to best practices on developing robust statewide data systems. Other sessions provided participants the opportunity to connect with peers from other states to discuss and learn more about workforce alignment, strategy development, student supports, and modern math courses.
“What the Launch Years Initiative has done for us . . . in terms of providing opportunities to learn what states are doing [and] creating guiding resources…those are super helpful,” said Patricia Ishihara, state math specialist for the Hawaii Department of Education.
Follow our LinkedIn page to stay tuned on math pathways development and access free resources like our Charting the Course report.
About the Author
Genesis Moreno
At the Charles A. Dana Center, Genesis leverages her expertise in creative communications to highlight the Center’s impact and diverse initiatives. Her role allows her to blend purpose-driven work with innovative storytelling, advancing the Center’s mission through strategic and engaging outreach.
Learn More about Launch Years
Learn how math pathways reform is transforming student opportunity by designing and implementing multiple mathematics tracks.