The State Public Charter School Commissionʻs Federal Programs team hosted Pamela Harris, a nationally recognized expert in mathematics education, for a three-day professional development training designed to transform how math is taught in our charter schools. Pam’s “Math is Figure-Out-able” approach centers on building both teacher and student capacity through hands-on learning, critical thinking, and real-world problem-solving.

Over the course of the training, participants engaged in lesson planning, classroom coaching, teaching strategies, and reflective discussions aimed at enhancing instructional practice. The experience provided teachers with tools and insights to directly improve student learning outcomes in mathematics.

Day 1: Kua o ka Lā, Hilo
On May 5, Pam visited Kua o ka Lā and led a math lesson with 3rd graders. Using relatable word problems grounded in their environment, she assessed students' mathematical thinking and guided them in constructing numerical relationships. The students discovered that they could solve problems mentally—without a pencil, paper, or calculator. Their high level of engagement was evident, as teachers observed and took notes on instructional strategies they could bring back to their own classrooms.

Day 2: Hawaiʻi Technology Academy (HTA), Kona
On May 6, Pam visited HTA in Kona and worked with Algebra 1, Algebra 2, and Geometry students in grades 9–11. The focus shifted to more advanced topics, including problem strings and strategies for building numerical relationships. Teachers observed how Pam facilitated student-led discussions that uncovered deeper mathematical structures and reasoning.

Day 3: Statewide Teacher Workshop
On the final day, educators from Oʻahu, Hilo, Kauaʻi, Kīhei, Kona, and Oʻahu came together for a full-day workshop. Pam presented her K–12 “Development of Mathematical Reasoning” progression, which includes:

  • Counting Strategies
  • Additive Reasoning
  • Multiplicative Reasoning
  • Proportional Reasoning
  • Functional Reasoning


The workshop emphasized that math is not about memorizing rules, but about reasoning and making sense of numbers. When students construct their own understanding of numerical relationships, they begin to see that math is both accessible and meaningful.

Pam’s approach supports a shift from memorization learning to true mathematical thinking.

As one teacher shared, “This changed how I think about teaching math entirely.”

Another teacher shared, “This has been one of the most impactful PDs I have ever been a part of.”

Teachers left the training inspired and equipped with practical strategies to bring into their classrooms.

This powerful three-day training reaffirmed our commitment to providing high-quality math education and ensuring all students receive the best possible learning experience. A special mahalo to Kua o Ka Lā and HTA Kona for graciously hosting us during our school visits. In addition, mahalo to the following schools for attending the workshop:

  • Hakipuʻu Academy
  • Hawaiʻi Technology Academy – Kauaʻi, Kihei, Kona, and Oʻahu
  • Innovations Public Charter School
  • Kua o Ka Lā Public Charter School
  • West Hawaiʻi Explorations Academy


We appreciate your time, engagement, and commitment to learning together!