Mailbag I: Choosing math resources and handling mixed classes with Jon Regino

In this special two-part Chalk & Talk mailbag episode, Anna Stokke is joined by Jonathan Regino, Pre-K–12 Supervisor of Math at Interboro School District, to answer questions submitted by listeners. Together, they answer questions from teachers and parents about math resources, explicit instruction, teaching mixed ability classes, supporting advanced learners, and more. Drawing on their experience in mathematics education, Anna and Jonathan share practical, evidence-informed insights for teachers and school leaders looking to improve student outcomes. This is Part 1 of a two-part listener Q&A special. This episode is available in video at www.youtube.com/@chalktalk-stokke TIMESTAMPS [00:00:22] Introduction [00:03:35] Saxon Math and Singapore Math [00:09:59] Recommended books for math teachers [00:13:28] Difference between Direct Instruction and direct instruction [00:16:10] Resources for preparing students for algebra [00:18:10] Tips for introducing evidenced-based instruction to colleagues [00:26:27] Teaching mixed ability classes [00:28:39] Teaching advanced students [00:31:14] Resources for advanced students [00:33:42] Ability grouping and mixed ability classrooms [00:36:05] Flexible ability grouping [00:39:32] Final thoughts   RELEVANT PREVIOUS EPISODES  What to do when “Research Shows” shuts you down: A guide for parents and teachers https://www.podbean.com/ew/pb-9t822-1ab0f70 Teaching math so students learn with Craig Barton https://www.podbean.com/ew/pb-vr69j-1a277a2 Math Academy: Optimizing student learning with Alex Smith and Justin Skycak https://www.podbean.com/ew/pb-jawpr-181e0c3 Project Follow Through: Direct Instruction's overlooked success with Marcy Stein https://www.podbean.com/ew/pb-a9fqx-17a2ffb Identifying and educating advanced students with Jonathan Plucker https://www.podbean.com/ew/pb-y6cxs-16ad6f1 Math Teaching Tips with Barry Garelick and JR Wilson https://www.podbean.com/ew/pb-97efn-13f9a35   RESOURCES https://www.annastokke.com/resources/ep-73-resources   EPISODE TRANSCRIPT https://www.annastokke.com/transcripts/ep-73-transcript   MUSIC Intro & Outro: Funk Jazz Big Band -  ColorFilmMusic Website: www.annastokke.com FB: Chalk & Talk IG: @chalkandtalkpodcast Tiktok: @chalkandtalkpodcast X: @rastokke LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/anna-stokke-3a1b4c Bluesky: @rastokke.bsky.social