Dr. Dia Bryant for West Orange School Board
I’m running for the West Orange Board of Education to ensure every student has access to rigorous academics, supportive learning environments, and opportunities that prepare them for college, careers, and life. My focus is on making “honors” mean more opportunity—not exclusion—by strengthening math pathways, ensuring curriculum is implemented effectively, and investing in leadership at every level.
As a national leader in math education, I’ve seen how math builds problem-solving skills, confidence, and opportunity far beyond the classroom. I believe every child can excel in math when we pair high expectations with the right supports, and that mastery of math opens doors to future success in any field.
I’m committed to expanding programs that build academic confidence and readiness, while holding our system accountable for results school by school. My vision is a lean, efficient central office that empowers people—both instructionally and administratively—to serve students well.
Why Math Sequencing Matters
In West Orange, the way we sequence math courses is more than an academic decision—it’s a social justice issue. For too long, course placement has acted as a gatekeeper, determining who gets access to advanced math and, by extension, college opportunities. My work—locally and nationally—has focused on transforming those gatekeepers into gateways.
Through the From Gatekeepers to Gateways report with the National Math Improvement Project, I’ve championed a shift to an opt-in model that opens advanced pathways to more students. This model includes on-ramps and off-ramps—flexible entry and exit points that put choice in the hands of families. I am thrilled to have been instrumental in catalyzing this process and evolved policy, here in West Orange.
Why does this matter? Because a student’s math sequence affects college placement, student loan debt, and the need for costly remediation—all of which influence persistence and completion rates. When we get math sequencing right, we create more equitable opportunities and better long-term outcomes for every student.
Dr. Dia Bryant shares information about the importance of inclusive math policies.