About Big Ideas Learning
Diversity, Equity, & Inclusion
At Big Ideas Learning, we are committed to fostering an equitable and diverse environment where we all belong to an inclusive community.
We welcome authentic efforts to empower, improve, and support one another to reach our goals of curiosity, quality, and innovation. We design our products to enable our community of learners and partners to achieve their own DEIB goals.
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.
Our History
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 Higher Ed.
1972
Dr. Ron Larson begins writing math curriculum after recognizing the need for student-friendly textbooks.
1976
1978
1981
1984
1987
1988
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
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
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.
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.