S2E2: Mistakes Allow Thinking to Happen (M.A.T.H.)

Kelly DeLong is a passionate K-12 mathematics educator with a long history of curriculum innovation.  Engaging mathematics professional development is a hallmark of Kelly’s administrative career.  She loves watching teachers have “Ah-Ha” moments around mathematics content.  Kelly is the Executive Director of the Kentucky Center for Mathematics and former Director of K-12 Math and Science with Richmond County Schools (NC).  She believes that a vibrant mathematics classroom in which students develop conceptual understanding of mathematics and fluency with basic math facts is a fundamental educational right for all children. Her mantra is “MATH= Mistakes Allow Thinking to Happen.” This mantra focuses on the nature of problem solving as a way of life.
Highlights to talk about
·  MATH mantra (Mistakes Allow Thinking to Happen)- Shifting the focus in the math classroom to culture building
·  Current topics in math education that are near and dear to my heart
§  Number talks
§  Math Fact Fluency
§  Building conceptual understanding of mathematics topics
§  Small group math workstations to build mathematics understanding
§  The power of Concrete Representational and Abstract. Appropriate technology integration comes with prudent diversity of learning.
·  Mathematics leadership requires focus (slow and steady) and relationship building (it’s always about buy-in from teachers).
·  Important to “hang with the varsity squad” if you want to grow as a leader.