Episode 5.5: Pet Fire Safety plus Latrenda Knighten Part 1

First, we start off with National Pet Safety Day. How will you celebrate? Well, if you want to get a Save our Pets sticker? You could go here.

Then, what does it take to lead one of the the largest mathematics education organization in the world? Latrenda Knighton, current president of the National Council of Teachers of Mathematics (NCTM), opens up about her journey from kindergarten teacher to mathematics education leader in part one of this insightful conversation.

Drawing from over three decades in education, Latrenda shares how her early experiences with professional organizations shaped her approach to leadership. "I started as an affiliate leader and member very early in my teaching career," she explains, highlighting how these connections provided support beyond what was available at the school level. Now as NCTM president, she's focused on strengthening these affiliate relationships while expanding professional development opportunities for educators everywhere.

The heart of Latrenda's mission revolves around three key priorities. First, supporting teachers through accessible professional learning opportunities beyond traditional conferences – including webinars, journals, and podcasts that meet educators where they are. Second, highlighting the critical importance of early mathematics education, which she champions through partnerships with early childhood organizations. And third, ensuring students across all grade levels engage in meaningful, sense-making mathematical experiences.

"An engaged student is a more productive student, is a more confident student," LaTrenda emphasizes, distinguishing between student engagement and mere entertainment. She advocates for mathematics instruction that helps students make connections between concepts and real-world applications, building on their existing knowledge while preparing them for future learning.

The episode also features Andy Peterson-Longmore introducing her Teacher Research Community project focused on bringing joy and fun back to high school mathematics classrooms without sacrificing rigor or content. Her work complements Latrenda's vision of mathematics education that empowers both teachers and students.

Tune in to this rich conversation about mathematics education leadership, and don't miss part two coming next week where we'll dive deeper into professional development and the future of mathematics teaching and learning.

You can connect with Latrenda through X (@LatrendaK).

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The More Math for More People Podcast is produced by CPM Educational Program.
Learn more at CPM.org
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