
Sarah Coste
Lower School Math Coordinator
Holton Arms School
Bethesda, MD
"Our faculty has had the pleasure of working with Cheryl Fricchione, a master teacher and professional development trainer, as we transition to Illustrative Math after more than 20 years with our previous program. Cheryl has been instrumental in helping us embrace this significant shift, providing not only her expertise but also a customized approach that goes far beyond traditional publishing house support.
Cheryl began her work with our Lower School faculty by deepening our understanding of math at each grade level, illuminating the Common Core State Standards and their progression. She then trained us on all aspects of the Illustrative Math program, from lesson planning and parent communication to the ins and outs of the Imagine Learning online platform. Cheryl also modeled lessons and facilitated an engaging book talk grounded in The Five Practices. Additionally, she provided pacing strategies to ensure we deliver the full program effectively within our busy independent school schedule, along with new resources to support our diverse learners in mixed-ability classrooms.
As Math Department Co-Chair at Holton-Arms, I recognize the value of unified progress. Cheryl’s expertise and dedication have been essential in helping us adopt this curriculum with fidelity and purpose. She is not only a resource to our faculty but also a true thought partner to me, genuinely invested in our school’s success. I have widely recommended her to other area schools in the Washington, D.C. area, confident that her impact will be as transformative for them as it has been for us. We feel privileged to work with someone of Cheryl’s caliber, and her influence on our team’s growth and enthusiasm has been extraordinary."