And we’re back! It’s been awhile…like since 2018! In the mean time, I’ve gained some years of experience in the classroom (6 years at John Muir Elementary in Lake Washington School District), I’ve gained some expertise as a K-5 math educator (3 years on the LWSD K-5 Math Curriculum Adoption and Implementation Committee), I’ve gained some MSFT Teams online/pandemic lockdown teaching skills, I’ve gained some kids (two daughters), I’ve gained some pounds (5 to 10 lbs. depending on the day), I’ve gained some grey hairs, and finally, I’ve gained a new position (Math Coach at Silver Lake Elementary in Everett Public Schools)!
My purpose is to restart my blog as a catalog of the professional learning that I do as a math coach, and also as a portfolio of the work I create as a math coach. We’re going to start with the pro learning but I’ll be sure to feather in some creations, like the Math Mindset Charter (MMC) pictured above.
The MMC is a great way to set the tone in your math block at the beginning of the year. The mindsets align with the Standards for Mathematical Practices and many 21st Century Skills. The chart has visuals that conform with GLAD and SIOP strategies. And most importantly, the agreements can be referred to, recognized and rewarded throughout the school year to build a classroom culture of students who have strong math identities.
Speaking of math identities, the first pro learning collection I’m going to post here will be my thoughts and reflection on Catalyzing Change in the Middle School Mathematics: Initiating Critical Conversations (NCTM).
“Now wait a minute!” you are saying to yourself, “Aren’t you a K-5 math coach?”
Great question, yes, I am an elementary math coach. However, I have already read Catalyzing for Change in Early Childhood and Elementary, and nearly all other NCTM published works including Principles to Action and Taking Action. In addition, one of my very first realizations in the job here at Silver Lake as the math coach, was that I lacked sufficient knowledge and experience with 4th and 5th grade math, specifically fractions. Furthermore, I have never been a part of K-8 math alignment work or inter-departmental trainings on how math transitions from elementary to middle school. Thus, I think this is a good foundation with which to start, plus I already speak the “language” of Catalyzing Change, so translation into the middle school context should come relatively easy to me.
With that prologue laid out, let’s get to the learning!
The education of a teacher. 