Making Math Memorable: Spark Thinking to Make Learning Stick
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Date: March 4, 2026
Time: 8:30 a.m. - 4:00 p.m. Location: Region 7 ESC Workshop #: #363937
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What helps math learning last? It begins by sparking student thinking. Making Math Memorable invites educators to reflect, collaborate, and gain inspiration for creating classrooms where mathematical understanding is deep, lasting, and engaging. Together, we’ll focus on how to move beyond surface-level learning and design meaningful experiences that help students truly connect with math. Whether you’re seeking fresh ideas, renewed energy, or powerful ways to support student thinking, this conference is for you. Let’s make math memorable, one spark at a time.
8:30 - 8:45 AM: Welcome and Opening
8:45 - 10:15 AM: Keynote Session with Pam Harris, Avoiding the Trap of Algorithms
Breakout Session 1 (Pick 1 of 2 options)
Option 1:
10:30 AM - 12:00 PM: Elementary Session with Pam Harris - Make It Happen with Problem Strings
Option 2:
10:30 - 11:10 AM: Micro Session Block 1
11:20 AM - 12:00 PM: Micro Session Block 2
12:00 - 1:00 PM: Lunch
Breakout Session 2 (Pick 1 of 2 options)
Option 1:
1:00 - 2:30 PM: Secondary Session with Pam Harris - Make It Happen with Problem Strings
Option 2:
1:00 - 1:40 PM: Micro Session Block 1
1:50 - 2:30 PM: Micro Session Block 2
2:45 - 3:10 PM: Keep the Spark Going Session
A closing networking session where educators connect, share takeaways, and identify one idea to take back to keep the learning going.
3:10 - 3:30 PM: Door Prizes and Closing
Pam HarrisFounder of Math Is Figure-Out-Able
Pam Harris is a nationally recognized mathematics educator, author, and consultant known for transforming the way teachers think about math instruction. She has spent decades helping schools shift from rote procedures to rich, sense-making approaches that grow confident thinkers. Pam has taught at every level from middle school to university courses and is the creator of the Math Is Figure-Out-Able framework that supports problem solving and reasoning for all students.
Her work centers on the belief that students learn best when they make sense of mathematics rather than memorize rules — and that teachers can build classrooms where reasoning is visible, curiosity thrives, and problem solving becomes natural.
Keynote Topic: Avoiding the Trap of Algorithms - Algorithms are powerful tools, but they can also limit student reasoning when taught as steps to follow. This keynote explores how students can draw on the strength of generalization without falling into mechanical thinking. Pam will share strategies that develop mathematical reasoning, lead to better student outcomes, and help more learners experience success. Math is figure-out-able — when we teach it that way.
Want to learn more about Pam and her work? Visit her website or resources, books, and professional learning opportunities.
Check back for updates!
Make it Happen with Problem Strings (for elementary staff)
with Pam Harris
Problem Strings are a purposeful sequence of related problems that help students mentally construct math relationships. This interactive routine centers on conversation and visible thinking, allowing teachers to draw out patterns, connections, and relationships as students solve—without falling back on memorized steps. A powerful way to teach math that gets results.
Problem Strings are a purposeful sequence of related problems that help students mentally construct math relationships. This interactive routine centers on conversation and visible thinking, allowing teachers to draw out patterns, connections, and relationships as students solve—without falling back on memorized steps. A powerful way to teach math that gets results.
Make it Happen with Problem Strings (for secondary staff)
with Pam Harris
Problem Strings support deep mathematical reasoning in secondary classrooms as well. Participants will explore how this structured routine builds flexibility and mathematical insight by engaging students in meaningful problem-solving conversations. Discover a way to teach math that moves beyond mimicry and sparks authentic understanding.
Problem Strings support deep mathematical reasoning in secondary classrooms as well. Participants will explore how this structured routine builds flexibility and mathematical insight by engaging students in meaningful problem-solving conversations. Discover a way to teach math that moves beyond mimicry and sparks authentic understanding.
We are grateful for the partners who help make this learning experience possible. Their support allows us to bring meaningful professional development to educators and create a day filled with fresh ideas, collaboration, and inspiration.
Sponsor links on this page may open in a new tab.
If your organization believes in empowering teachers and growing strong math learners, we would love to have you join us. Sponsorship is a simple way to spotlight your support for education and connect with attendees who share your passion. Become a sponsor today!
QUESTIONS? CONTACT A MEMBER OF OUR TEAM!
