The Rice University School Mathematics Project (RUSMP) was established in 1987, with a grant from the National Science Foundation, in order to provide a bridge between the Rice University mathematics research community and Houston area mathematics teachers. The mission of the Rice University School Mathematics Project is to help teachers and administrators better understand the nature of mathematics, the effective teaching and assessing of mathematics, and the importance of mathematics in today's society. Our major goal is to enhance the mathematical and pedagogical knowledge of Houston K-12 math teachers and support them in implementing more effective mathematics programs.

The RUSMP approach is founded on the belief that sustained instructional changes can best be supported through the development of professionalism among teachers and the creation of a network of teachers who have extensive knowledge of both mathematical content and pedagogy. All RUSMP activities are designed to support the development of teachers’ professionalism by focusing on three major areas:

1. Solid knowledge of mathematics, including key concepts that students must master
2. Awareness of a variety of approaches to instruction and their appropriate use; and
3. The ability to plan and reflect on instruction together with other teachers.

RUSMP's specific goals are to:

• increase the mathematical knowledge of Houston area teachers,
• promote and model effective teaching and assessment of mathematics with active student involvement in the learning process,
• encourage the appropriate use of technology and manipulatives in the teaching of mathematics,
• understand and promote research-based teaching and learning of mathematics,
• encourage participation of classroom teachers in professional organizations,
• provide a forum for communication and collaboration between teachers and university mathematicians and scientists,
• form a local mathematics education network to implement national, state, and local reform efforts in mathematics education,
• provide an awareness of minority and gender issues,
• develop innovative curriculum in mathematics, and
• create a multiplier effect that enables RUSMP to have a significant impact on Houston-area teaching.

To accomplish its goals, RUSMP has developed an extensive array of programs and courses available to teachers and administrators. These include long-term, intensive, professional development for teachers, day-long workshops, and opportunities for networking across schools and districts. In addition, RUSMP has undertaken several collaborative projects with districts, schools and other community members in the Houston area. All of these programs and activities are anchored by a common curriculum and approach to instruction that serve to give coherence to the diversity of outreach efforts we undertake.

As a complement to RUSMP's efforts to provide professional development for teachers and support to schools and the community, RUSMP has developed a rigorous program of evaluation and research. All major projects are subject to in depth evaluation, which provides valuable information for continuous improvement of our programs. The research program seeks to move beyond the evaluation efforts and contribute to the growing body of research relevant to reform in mathematics education.