Ryan Brown, a Secondary Math & STEM / Computer Science teacher at Merrill Community Schools (Michigan), has been named the Open Up Resources Teacher of the Month for October 2024. Brown is being recognized for his outstanding work in his classroom and ongoing support of teachers across the country as a member of the Open Up Resources National Professional Learning Community.

Brown’s work with Open Up Resources 6–8 Math and Open Up High School Mathematics makes him one of the most innovative teachers in the country. These curricula inspire a new way of teaching math by transforming classrooms into hives of activity focusing on discussion, questioning, debate, and the deeper conceptual learning of mathematics that follows. 

Allison Jordan, a colleague at Merrill Community Schools, nominated Brown for being an exceptional mathematics teacher. Brown offers a welcoming and engaging student environment and builds positive relationships with his students. Jordan shared, “Mr. Brown works really hard to make his teaching relevant to the lives of our students.”

In her nomination, Jordan described Brown’s desire to continue his own professional learning and growth. She explained, “Mr. Brown learns about his students so that he can relate to them on personal levels, and guide their learning towards their areas of interest. He spends an incredible amount of his personal time supporting our student clubs and activities. Not to mention, he participates in professional development all over the state of Michigan. He shares that professional learning with instructors at all levels in our district. I cannot say enough good things about Ryan Brown.”

Brown shared about the impact of the Open Up Math curricula in his classroom. He explained, “What I love most about OUR is how it encourages deep mathematical thinking and problem-solving. The way the lessons are designed (and research based!) really draws students into leading their own exploration and discussions, which makes math feel not only relevant but also exciting for them.” 

And he offered some thoughts for educators interested in adopting the curriculum: “I’d tell any teacher thinking about adopting this curriculum that it’s a total game-changer. OUR is structured in a way that promotes collaboration, critical thinking, and real student engagement. It gives you the tools and flexibility to differentiate instruction and reach all types of learners, making it a versatile resource that supports both teachers and students.”

About Open Up Resources:

Open Up Resources is a non-profit publisher in pursuit of delivering equitable learning experiences for all students. By providing educators best in class, research-based PreK-12 curricula and professional learning, educators can better support every student’s academic success and create in-class experiences that celebrate, honor, and empower all students with a keen focus on historically excluded student populations.

To learn more about Open Up Resources’ mission and work, click here.