The Mathematics Learning, Teaching, and Leading program is for teachers, interventionists, teacher leaders, and coaches who are seeking a deeper understanding of the mathematics they teach and the ambitious and equitable practices shown to make a difference in mathematics learning. These courses can be used as electives in graduate programs or simply for their own ongoing mathematics-focused professional learning.
Use the menu above to navigate to information about which program is right for you, steps for completing the program, and pathways for Added Mathematics Endorsements. Also find the course schedule and descriptions,; course websites, practica, and portfolio information; and a variety of teaching and leading resources.
"I am so thankful for ... these courses. It has really improved my instruction and my students' learning. It has made me a better mathematician and helped me understand how to better support my staff in their own math journey."
"I leave [this course] inspired to continue to improve my craft, to increase my teacher tool belt and to hopefully solidify the mathematical foundations of the students I encounter on a daily basis...I aspire to connect dots, to let kids tell the story, to let them build, to talk less and listen more, to remember math is hard, but we can do hard things! After teaching for 20 years, I think I still have the same wish I had after completing my first year, “I wish I knew then what I know now…”
"Making models for math problems with focus on the whys in math, has been the most powerful influence on my way of thinking.
" These courses have helped me to understand the benefits of using student-centered math instruction focused more on students’ reasoning, mathematical discussions, and multiple strategies instead of only correct answers. It means each and every student can participate."
"As a result of taking this class, my understanding of the operations has deepened, and I have a clearer picture of how the eight mathematical practices impact how students learn about operations, whole numbers, and fractions... The biggest change in my teaching practice will be how I embed the mathematical practices in my instructional routines on a regular basis."
“I am both anxious and excited about experimenting with all of the things that I have learned... It is one thing to know that it is the way that it should be done, but another to actually implement. I think that it will be a process. [I need to] remind myself of that, and continue to focus on the students and their thinking. Together we will make progress.”
“ALL STUDENTS are capable of learning... There is no special math club that only a select few students can have membership in the club. All students are mathematicians.”
"Even though collecting conjectures takes time, which is something we teachers always feel we never have enough of, it is a powerful activity to incorporate into my teaching methods. Collecting conjectures is a powerful metacognition tool. Students can tweak and modify their conjectures/thinking as a lesson evolves, which lends to more opportunities to internalize a concept. Brilliant!"
"Are you confused by the math you teach or want help thinking about how to use the resources that are part of your curriculum? The PSU math courses will help you reflect on your teacher moves and how you can encourage student discourse. You will get a chance to work with your colleagues to examine student work samples and practice the math yourself. Be prepared to experience a positive disequilibrium and non-closure. Reignite your own growth mindset and curiosity about how and why math algorithms work! Then take this work back into your classroom to help your students explore concepts at a deeper level!"
The Association of Mathematics Teacher Educators (AMTE), in conjunction with The Math Learning Center (MLC), is offering an Elementary Mathematics Specialist Scholarship. This is funding that can support your coursework. For more information visit AMTE's scholarship website.
The deadline to apply June 15 annually.
The National Council of Teachers of Mathematics (NCTM) offers several grants that can fund or partially fund your courses. For more information visit NCTM's grants website. Deadline to apply November 1 annually. Note: There are also grants to support classroom- and school-based activities as well as NCTM Annual Conference attendance .
The deadline to apply is November 15 annually.
The Oregon Council of Teachers of Mathematics (OCTM) offers the Oscar Schaaf - Scott McFadden Memorial Scholarship to support classroom teachers with continuing their professional growth. For more information visit OCTM's scholarships website. Note: There are also grants to support conference attendance .
The deadline to apply is the 15th of EACH month throughout the year.
If you have any questions about the courses or TSPC specialization, email Nicole Rigelman, program coordinator, at rigelman<at>pdx.edu.