MIAA-FINEASS: A Comprehensive Guide to Improving Assessment and Instruction in Mathematics

Introduction

The Mathematics Improvement Assessment and Acceleration for Needs in Special Education and Students (MIAA-FINEASS) is a federally funded program designed to improve the assessment and instruction of mathematics for students with disabilities, particularly those with severe cognitive disabilities. MIAA-FINEASS provides resources, training, and technical assistance to teachers, administrators, and other stakeholders in order to help them implement effective mathematics instruction for all students.

Background

According to the National Center for Education Statistics, students with disabilities are significantly less likely to achieve proficiency in mathematics than their peers without disabilities. In 2019, only 38% of students with disabilities scored at or above the proficient level on the National Assessment of Educational Progress (NAEP) in mathematics, compared to 53% of students without disabilities.

The MIAA-FINEASS program was created in response to the need for improved mathematics instruction for students with disabilities. The program is based on the belief that all students can learn mathematics, regardless of their disability. MIAA-FINEASS provides a comprehensive approach to improving mathematics instruction, including:

• Professional development for teachers on effective mathematics instruction for students with disabilities
• Technical assistance to schools and districts in implementing effective mathematics instruction
• Resources for teachers and students, including online materials and lesson plans

Benefits of MIAA-FINEASS

The MIAA-FINEASS program has been shown to have a positive impact on the mathematics achievement of students with disabilities. Studies have found that students who participated in MIAA-FINEASS programs made significant gains in mathematics skills, including:

• Number sense
• Measurement
• Geometry
• Algebra

In addition to improving student achievement, MIAA-FINEASS has also been shown to have a positive impact on teacher knowledge and skills. Teachers who participated in MIAA-FINEASS programs reported increased confidence in teaching mathematics to students with disabilities and increased knowledge of effective mathematics instruction.

Effective Strategies for Implementing MIAA-FINEASS

There are a number of effective strategies that teachers can use to implement MIAA-FINEASS in their classrooms. These strategies include:

• Using a variety of instructional methods, such as hands-on activities, manipulatives, and technology, to engage students in learning.
• Providing explicit instruction, which involves breaking down concepts into small steps and providing students with clear and concise explanations.
• Using formative assessment to monitor student progress and make adjustments to instruction as needed.
• Collaborating with other teachers and support staff to provide students with a comprehensive and supportive learning environment.

Tips and Tricks for Implementing MIAA-FINEASS

Here are some tips and tricks for implementing MIAA-FINEASS in your classroom:

• Start small. Don't try to implement all of the MIAA-FINEASS strategies at once. Start with one or two strategies that you think will be most effective for your students.
• Be patient. It takes time for students to learn new concepts and skills. Don't get discouraged if your students don't make progress as quickly as you would like. Keep providing them with opportunities to learn and practice.
• Be flexible. Not all strategies will work for all students. Be willing to adjust your instruction based on the needs of your students.
• Get help. If you are struggling to implement MIAA-FINEASS in your classroom, don't hesitate to ask for help from other teachers, support staff, or the MIAA-FINEASS project team.

Frequently Asked Questions about MIAA-FINEASS

Q: What is MIAA-FINEASS?
A: MIAA-FINEASS is a federally funded program that provides resources, training, and technical assistance to improve the assessment and instruction of mathematics for students with disabilities, particularly those with severe cognitive disabilities.

Q: Who can participate in MIAA-FINEASS?
A: MIAA-FINEASS is available to schools and districts that serve students with disabilities, particularly those with severe cognitive disabilities.

Q: How can I get involved in MIAA-FINEASS?
A: To get involved in MIAA-FINEASS, contact your state education agency or the MIAA-FINEASS project team.

Q: What are the benefits of participating in MIAA-FINEASS?
A: The benefits of participating in MIAA-FINEASS include improved student achievement in mathematics, increased teacher knowledge and skills, and access to resources and support.

Q: How much does it cost to participate in MIAA-FINEASS?
A: MIAA-FINEASS is a free program for schools and districts that serve students with disabilities.

Q: What is the time commitment for participating in MIAA-FINEASS?
A: The time commitment for participating in MIAA-FINEASS varies depending on the level of involvement. Schools and districts can choose to participate in a variety of activities, including professional development, technical assistance, and resource sharing.

Call to Action

If you are interested in improving the mathematics achievement of students with disabilities, we encourage you to learn more about MIAA-FINEASS. Visit the MIAA-FINEASS website or contact your state education agency to get involved.

Tables

Table 1: MIAA-FINEASS Funding by Year

Table 2: MIAA-FINEASS Impact on Student Achievement

Table 3: MIAA-FINEASS Resources for Teachers