The Collaborative Math Classroom: Reflections and Recommendations by Sarah Powell and Alison Hardy

Math in Practice: The AIM Exchange

One of the highlights of the AIM Summit 2025, held at Concordia University in Montreal this past May, was a dynamic panel discussion bringing together researchers and educators to reflect on meaningful research–practice partnerships in early mathematics. As we bring the year to a close, we’re excited to revisit this conversation in our latest podcast episode, highlighting how collaborative work in early math assessment and instruction is shaping classroom practice across Canada.

Pi-Oneering Math Education: Keeping Teachers at the Centre

In celebration of Pi Day, this episode of Collective Voices explores how connecting research with real-world classroom experience can transform early math education. Special guests Dr. Sandy Youmans and Steph Gunning share their insights on supporting teachers, building confidence in math instruction, and developing professional development models that bridge the gap between theory and practice. Dr. Sandy Youmans: Sandy is an adjunct assistant professor at the Faculty of Education at Queen’s University. She is a former elementary teacher, who is passionate about equipping educational professionals with the skills, knowledge, attitudes, and resources needed to support learner success. Dr. Youmans is a co-investigator of the AIM Collective and is co-editor of the book, Beyond 1, 2, 3: Early Mathematics Education in Canada. She firmly believes that mathematics education in Canada can be strengthened through collaboration.   Steph Gunning: Steph began her teaching career as a high school mathematics teacher and is now a dedicated vice-principal with the Ottawa Catholic School Board bringing a wealth of experience from Kindergarten through grade 12. Steph is committed to improving early math instruction, empowering teacher voice in professional development, and sharing her passion for the vital role early math plays in a child’s life. Recognizing the impact of trauma, she believes in a relationship-based approach to learning and ensuring equitable access to quality early math experiences to build strong foundations for life success. As a lifelong learner, she is currently pursuing a second Master's degree in Cognitive Science at Carleton University and is a member of the AIM Collective.

The Collaborative Math Classroom: Reflections and Recommendations by Sarah Powell and Alison Hardy

Sarah Powell is an Associate Professor in the Department of Special Education at the University of Texas at Austin. Her research interests include developing and testing interventions for students with mathematics difficulties, with a special emphasis on peer tutoring, word-problem solving, mathematics writing, and the symbols and vocabulary within mathematics. Alison Hardy is a third-year PhD student at The University of Texas at Austin and was a former second-grade teacher. She is in the Learning Disabilities and Behavioral Disorders program, with an emphasis on students with mathematics difficulties. Her research interests include schema instruction and problem posing.

Sum-it-up with the AIM Panel!

Listen to the AIM 2024 Summit panel featuring Carolyn Mussio, Ashley Kozak, and Gilbert Morris. Moderated by Jo-Anne LeFevre!

AIM for Resource Curation: ToyBox Manitoba

Interested in learning about AIM resources? Listen from our ToyBox Manitoba Team, Sheri-Lynn Skwarchuck, Madison Young, and Mikaila Collins   Dr. Sheri-Lynn Skwarchuck: Sheri is an Education Professor and the Developmental Studies Director at the University of Winnipeg. She has worked as a school psychologist and has taught courses in child development, assessment, and inclusion. She is a Co-Applicant on the AIM Project and the Director of the TOYBOX project.   Madison Young: Madison is a recent graduate of the Master of Arts in Counselling Psychology)program at Yorkville University. Since 2021, she has been an active contributor to Toybox and is currently working as a Senior Research Assistant.    Mikaila Collins: Mikaila is finishing her 4th-year practicum block and is headed into her 5th and final year of education at the University of Winnipeg! She is also a senior research assistant at ToyBox and has been part of the team since 2019.