About Us

Founded in 2008 by renowned math textbook author, Dr. Ron Larson, Big Ideas Learning creates cohesive, content-rich, and rigorous mathematics curriculum ranging from kindergarten through high school.  

Big Ideas Learning’s research-based instructional math programs, from Dr. Ron Larson and his expert authorship team, provide a balanced approach to empower teachers and promote students’ conceptual understanding and fluency in math. 

 

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Our Team

Our professional team of experienced education consultants can provide customized professional development workshops ranging from initial implementation sessions to multi-day training seminars, depending on the school district's individual needs. Contact us for more information.

Shelly Baumann

National Mathematics Consultant

Mary Betz

National Education Consultant

Lori Burns

National Education Consultant

Erin Cockrell

National Education Consultant Manager

Wendy Franklund

National Education Consultant

Judy Hickman

Florida Education Consultant

Nick Kosobucki

National Education Consultant

Mindy Mark

Florida Education Consultant

Jeff May

National Education Consultant Manager

Mike Miller

National Mathematics Consultan

Lindsey Mischler

National Education Consultant

Sophia Montiel

National Mathematics Consultant Manager

Amanda Shelley

National Mathematics Consultant

Janay Sanders

National Mathematics Consultant

Cheryl Townsend

National Education Consultant

Margaret Rebman

National Education Consultant

Thomas Rhea

National Mathematics Consultant

Rodnee Wimberly

Florida Education Consultant

The History of Larson Texts and Big Ideas Learning

In 1972, Dr. Ron Larson, a mathematics professor at Penn State Behrend, recognized the need for student-friendly math textbooks. After five years of development, Dr. Larson published his first textbook, Calculus, with D.C. Heath.  

For nearly 50 years, Dr. Larson and his expert authorship team have been committed to developing innovative, cohesive, coherent, and student-friendly math programs. Dr. Larson has authored over 100 award-winning titles of core mathematics programs, used by millions of students each year, from kindergarten through high school. 

1972

Dr. Ron Larson begins writing math curriculum after recognizing the need for student-friendly textbooks.

1976

Dr. Ron Larson signs his first contract to publish a Calculus textbook.

1978

Dr. Ron Larson publishes his first textbook, Calculus, 1st Edition. 

1981

Dr. Ron Larson forms Larson Texts, a small company run out of his office at Penn State, The Behrend College.

1984

Larson Texts hires its first full-time staff.

1987

Larson Texts releases its first digital platform, Math Tutor.

1988

Dr. Laurie Boswell joins Dr. Ron Larson as co-author. 

1990

Larson Texts creates one of the first multimedia mathematics textbooks ever, Interactive Calculus, as well as Internet Calculus in 1995. 

Larson Texts begins selling their production, typesetting, and software development services to other publishers.

1996

Marks the development of Larson Texts’ first imprint, Meridian Creative Group, and the company’s foyer into becoming a publisher.

2003

Larson Learning is formed and comprehensive instructional software is created, including Larson’s Elementary Math (K-5), Larson’s Middle School Math (6-8), and Algebra 1, with Spanish versions for each.

The company establishes its first sales force,employing representatives across the U.S.

2008

Larson Texts forms the Division, Big Ideas Learning, as its K-12 math publishing arm.

2010

Matt Totzke is named CEO.

2014

Big Ideas Learning releases its first digital platform, BigIdeasMath.com. 

Larson Texts establishes an ongoing working relationship with Grant Larson Productions, a multimedia production company. 

2016

Paul Battaglia joins as co-author. 

Big Ideas Math Middle School becomes a market leader in Florida. 

2017

Big Ideas Learning forms a partnership with National Geographic Learning. Through this partnership, NGL becomes the sales and distribution arm of Big Ideas Learning. 

2018

The company publishes the first volume of Math Musicals.

2020-2022

Dr. India White and Nick Lopez join as co-authors.

Dr. Sophie Specjal joins as an editorial contributor with expertise in Visible Learning, having studied under Dr. John Hattie. 

2023

Big Ideas Learning releases Math & YOU nationally, which includes a brand-new digital learning experience.

Larson Texts acquires Grant Larson Productions and video production and design capabilities are brought in-house. 

2024

Larson Texts celebrates 40 years as an employer and 50 years since the 1st Edition of Calculus was published.
Meet the Authors

Our Authorship Team

Empowering Teachers Inside the Classroom, to Inspire Students Beyond the Classroom

We believe in high-impact, practical strategies that have the greatest effect on student learning. Through a student-focused pedagogical approach, we provide educators with the tools and curriculum necessary for clear and cohesive mathematical instruction, that enables students to take ownership of their learning. 

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Our Partnership

Big Ideas Learning is proudly supported by National Geographic Learning | Cengage
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