Recognizing that algebra is a gatekeeper course for higher mathematics and postsecondary education, the purpose of the Algebra Project is to support algebraic reasoning in the elementary grades and to prepare students for middle grade mathematics and Algebra 1. This algebraic foundation will prepare students for college preparatory mathematics in high school, and will give students the mathematical knowledge required for college entrance, success in college courses, and lifelong civic engagement.

The UC Davis CRESS Center is a collaborating partner, along with Twin Rivers Unified School District and the California Teachers Association Institute for Teaching, in a pilot project of the Algebra Project at Allison Elementary School. Participating teachers are researching the impact of the Algebra Project on their practice and on their students’ performance through a teacher research project that documents the voices of the teachers as they learn about and implement the Algebra Project pedagogy. Recording teachers’ first-hand experiences will provide valuable information that may inform and guide project expansion.