This project aims to serve the national interest by addressing student success in mathematics as they begin their academic and career interests at community college. Recognizing that many students begin their academic programs with the requirement to enroll in developmental mathematics on the almost sole basis of a test score, this project intends to develop and examine an innovative approach to math placement. Based on the literature on reforming math placement and the results of a pilot study, the project team intends to advance an approach that addresses and investigates the complexities associated with math placement. Recent research suggests that improvement in the construction and technical aspects of placement exams is not sufficient for appropriate placement and points to evidence that this approach can maintain or exacerbate barriers to student success and progress in STEM. The project team intends to enhance and examine an innovative approach to developmental mathematics reform that builds an ecosystem of activities based on student background, experience and agency, as well as current perspectives on fostering the development of knowledge and skills. This approach is intended to optimize and advance positive outcomes for students who are initially placed in developmental math and offers opportunities and support for success. The primary goal of the project is to establish a sustainable, evidenced-based math placement and support model tailored to meet the deve