Formative Assessment Resources & Position Statement

The AMTE/NCSM Joint Task Force on Formative Assessment develops materials in support of formative assessment in mathematics education. As new initiatives and resources become available from the Task Force, more information will be made available here.

Position Statement on Formative Assessment

The National Council of Supervisors of Mathematics (NCSM) and the Association of Mathematics Teacher Educators (AMTE) affirm the centrality of research-based, mathematically focused, formative assessment—a key element in the national effort to improve mathematics proficiency. Formative assessment needs to be intentionally and systematically integrated into classroom instruction at every grade level. This requires adequate attention in the preparation of new teachers of mathematics and in the continuing education and professional development of current teachers.

Formative Assessment Joint Task Force 

  • Valerie Mills, Co-Chair, Ypsilanti, MI
  • Edward Silver, Chair, Ann Arbor, MI

NCSM Members

  • Valerie Mills, Co-Chair, Ypsilanti, MI
  • Wanda Audrict, Stone Mountain, GA
  • Marge Petit, North Fayston, VT

AMTE Members

  • Edward Silver, Chair, Ann Arbor, MI
  • Marilyn Strutchens, Auburn, AL
  • Megan Burton, Auburn, AL

Overview of the JUMP START: Formative Assessment Series

The JUMP START series includes materials for mathematics teacher educators to use in their work with in-service and pre-service teachers in support of formative assessment. The goals of the modules include:

  • Provide teachers with understanding that formative assessment is a process of gathering evidence about what students know and understand, their misconceptions, and their incomplete knowledge
  • Support teachers in using strategies that inform teaching and learning and shape their instructional decisions "in the moment" and in short and long-term planning
  • Suggest strategies for encouraging greater involvement of students

See the attached documents and related links for additional information and the accompanying JUMP START modules (provided to NCSM and AMTE members as a benefit of membership).


Connections

Timely, important updates for mathematics teacher educators.

This issue of AMTE Connections highlights the power of community in sustaining and advancing mathematics teacher education. Across this issue, contributors explore how we learn from one another, support teachers and teacher educators, advocate for equitable educational opportunities, and remain committed to the work even during challenging times. In his presidential message, Farshid Safi reflects on the importance of strategic partnerships and collective leadership, while other contributors examine responsive teaching, professional learning, mathematical healing, advocacy, and the experiences that sustain us as mathematics teacher educators. You will also find updates from AMTE committees and affiliates, opportunities for mentoring and professional development, information about the 2027 AMTE Annual Conference in Baltimore, and an announcement from the editors of Mathematics Teacher Educator highlighting the June 2026 issue and the upcoming search for the journal’s next editorial team. Thank you to all who contributed to this issue and to the many members whose work reminds us that meaningful change is built through collaboration, persistence, and a shared commitment to excellence and equity in mathematics teacher education.

Eugenia Vomvoridi-Ivanovic, Connections Editor