Fall 2025
Quick Refresher: What is NCTM?
I know most of you are already in the know, but here’s a quick reminder about the organization that supports us all. Founded back in 1920, the National Council of Teachers of Mathematics (NCTM) is the largest professional group for math educators in the world. Their mission is straightforward: to champion high-quality math teaching and learning for every single student. They are the public voice for math education, offering leadership, professional development, and research to help PK-12 teachers in the classroom.
Learn more: www.nctm.org
I know most of you are already in the know, but here’s a quick reminder about the organization that supports us all. Founded back in 1920, the National Council of Teachers of Mathematics (NCTM) is the largest professional group for math educators in the world. Their mission is straightforward: to champion high-quality math teaching and learning for every single student. They are the public voice for math education, offering leadership, professional development, and research to help PK-12 teachers in the classroom.
Learn more: www.nctm.org
New Position Statement: Shifting Our Math Culture
NCTM recently released a new position statement, "Changing the Professional Culture of Teaching Mathematics" (June 2025). This position statement challenges us to fundamentally change how math is taught and how students view it. The main idea is that math shouldn't be a gatekeeper that limits students. It should be an empowering, collaborative, and fair experience for everyone. It's a quick read, and it's a great piece to reflect on as you shape the environment and goals for your own math classroom this year.
Learn more: https://www.nctm.org/Standards-and-Positions/Position-Statements/Changing-the-Professional-Culture-of-Teaching-Mathematics/
NCTM recently released a new position statement, "Changing the Professional Culture of Teaching Mathematics" (June 2025). This position statement challenges us to fundamentally change how math is taught and how students view it. The main idea is that math shouldn't be a gatekeeper that limits students. It should be an empowering, collaborative, and fair experience for everyone. It's a quick read, and it's a great piece to reflect on as you shape the environment and goals for your own math classroom this year.
Learn more: https://www.nctm.org/Standards-and-Positions/Position-Statements/Changing-the-Professional-Culture-of-Teaching-Mathematics/
Opportunity: Listen to the "Adding It All Up" Podcast
Looking for a little professional learning on the go? NCTM launched a great podcast series in 2024 called "Adding It All Up." The podcast is hosted by former and current NCTM presidents. The episodes tackle current topics, insights, and new trends in math education. They cover practical things like:
Learn more: https://nctm.buzzsprout.com/2319425
Looking for a little professional learning on the go? NCTM launched a great podcast series in 2024 called "Adding It All Up." The podcast is hosted by former and current NCTM presidents. The episodes tackle current topics, insights, and new trends in math education. They cover practical things like:
- Starting the school year strong
- Building welcoming classroom communities
- Integrating data science and data literacy
- Advocating for better math access
Learn more: https://nctm.buzzsprout.com/2319425
Classroom Tool: Engaging "Notice & Wonder" Lessons
If you’re looking to spark curiosity, check out NCTM’s collection of Notice & Wonder lessons. If you haven't used the Notice and Wonder routine, it is pretty simple. You show your students an interesting photo or video and ask them, "What do you notice?" and "What do you wonder?" The goal is to get students thinking like mathematicians and seeing the world through a mathematical lens. NCTM has put together some really engaging images and videos that I think your students will like. I recommend taking a few minutes to explore these free resources.
Learn more: https://www.nctm.org/noticeandwonder/
If you’re looking to spark curiosity, check out NCTM’s collection of Notice & Wonder lessons. If you haven't used the Notice and Wonder routine, it is pretty simple. You show your students an interesting photo or video and ask them, "What do you notice?" and "What do you wonder?" The goal is to get students thinking like mathematicians and seeing the world through a mathematical lens. NCTM has put together some really engaging images and videos that I think your students will like. I recommend taking a few minutes to explore these free resources.
Learn more: https://www.nctm.org/noticeandwonder/
This page was created to support the SDCTM Newsletter. I have the NCTM representative for SDCTM. If you have questions, reach out me.
Kevin Smith
[email protected]
Instagram: instagram.com/kevinsmithsd
Kevin Smith
[email protected]
Instagram: instagram.com/kevinsmithsd
