Algebra doesn’t begin in high school, it begins when students notice patterns, describe relationships, make generalizations, and use representations to explain their thinking.

In this full-day, in-person institute, participants will explore how to build algebraic readiness from the earliest grades through advanced mathematics. Moving beyond rote procedures and simply getting the right answer, we will focus on the conceptual understanding, reasoning, and mathematical habits that allow students to make sense of algebra and use it flexibly.

Through hands-on strategies, visual models, mathematical discourse, and purposeful questioning, participants will learn how to:
Connect foundational mathematical ideas to algebraic thinking and future learning.

• Address unfinished learning while maintaining grade-level rigor.
• Identify the essential learning within standards and learning progressions.
• Use representations and models to make abstract ideas visible.
• Strengthen students’ reasoning, justification, and mathematical language.
• Design instruction and support that builds understanding rather than dependence on procedures.
• Apply practical strategies for classroom instruction, intervention, and coaching.

Participants will leave with a clearer understanding of what algebra readiness looks like across grade levels and  practical ideas for helping students develop the reasoning and conceptual foundations they need for long-term success in mathematics.