Hazelwood North Middle School Takes Math to New Heights with Number Worlds

The case study examines the implementation of Number Worlds, a blended learning intervention program for students in grades 6–8 within Hazelwood North Middle School in the Hazelwood School District, located in Florissant, Missouri. Hazelwood is a suburban public school district and the second-largest K–12 district in St. Louis, serving over 18,000 students across 33 schools, including approximately 3,000 students with Individualized Education Plans (IEPs). The study highlights the program’s impact on special education classrooms during the 2015/2016 school year, focusing on students with autism, intellectual disabilities, hearing impairments, language impairments, and specific learning disabilities.

Outcomes examined include improvements in math proficiency and confidence, with progress tracked through AIMSweb data and preparation for the MAP-A Assessment. Results show significant gains, such as a 48% average improvement for students with intellectual disabilities and a 35% average improvement for students with hearing impairments. Students with autism benefited from the program’s structured and routine-based approach, while those with language impairments gained mastery through embedded vocabulary instruction. Educators reported increased student engagement, confidence, and independence, with some students advancing out of modified classes. The program’s hands-on activities, adaptive instruction, and consistent lesson format contributed to its effectiveness in addressing learning gaps and fostering progression.