The Metro Chicago Mathematics Initiative (MCMI) is a program within the Learning Sciences Research Institute (LSRI) at the University of Illinois at Chicago (UIC) that supports teachers and school districts in transforming their mathematics education practices through intensive professional development and coaching services. MCMI takes a systemic approach in building district, school, and teacher capacity, with collaboration among educators at its core. It also emphasizes and supports high-quality instruction, curriculum, and assessment, helping educators focus on student thinking to improve teaching and learning.
MCMI provides professional development, and on-site coaching for teachers, teacher leaders, administrators, instructional coaches, and math specialists. MCMI also provides opportunities for these key stakeholders to network and problem solve with individuals from other districts or schools.
Our work is driven by a focus on student learning. Drawing on decades of research and experience, we aim to change the way that mathematics is taught and learned in every classroom, for every student. We help teachers engage students deeply in mathematics by building their own mathematical knowledge and supporting their ability to use student thinking to inform their instruction.