About Big Ideas Learning
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 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 ConsultantMary Betz
National Education ConsultantLori Burns
National Education ConsultantErin Cockrell
National Education Consultant ManagerWendy Franklund
National Education ConsultantJudy Hickman
Florida Education ConsultantNick Kosobucki
National Education ConsultantMindy Mark
Florida Education ConsultantJeff May
National Education Consultant ManagerMike Miller
National Mathematics ConsultanLindsey Mischler
National Education ConsultantSophia Montiel
National Mathematics Consultant ManagerAmanda Shelley
National Mathematics ConsultantJanay Sanders
National Mathematics ConsultantCheryl Townsend
National Education ConsultantMargaret Rebman
National Education ConsultantThe 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
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
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.

Our Partnership
Big Ideas Learning is proudly supported by National Geographic Learning | Cengage.
