How mathematics is taught in middle school significantly influences students' grasp of mathematical concepts in higher grades. Providing meaningful, connected learning experiences is essential to ensure students build a solid foundation. This five-part series comprehensively explores the grades 6-8 standards, focusing on aligning key concepts vertically within this grade band. In this session, middle school mathematics teachers will explore the balance of conceptual and procedural fluency within data and statistics in the middle grades and reason with problem-solving situations involving statistical investigations and data analysis. While attending all sessions is optional, participants can choose the ones most relevant to their classroom needs. By engaging with this series, teachers gain valuable routines, strategies, and resources from the MGM Institute, empowering them to teach and inspire middle-grade learners effectively.