Activating the Vision

In order to build and sustain a successful mathematics program, mathematics leaders need to collaboratively establish a cohesive vision for teaching and learning and put that vision into action. This book details the necessary steps mathematics leaders must take to change traditional practices; meet new curricular, instructional, and assessment challenges; and engage students, families, and community members in mathematics education.BenefitsDiscover the big ideas and essential understandings of the four keys of effective mathematics leadership and how the four keys connect to each other.Answer questions to assess mathematics leadership.Consider scenarios that illustrate how mathematics leaders can take the visionary leadership actions described in this book.Explore the relationships among district-, site-, and team-level engagement.Appraise the necessary steps to move mathematics leadership from vision to action.Use appendices that present planning templates and menus of professional development opportunities.ContentsForeword by Timothy D. KanoldIntroductionPart I: Establish a Clear Vision for Mathematics Teaching and LearningTake Stock of Your Mathematics Program's HealthDevelop a Collaborative Vision for an Exemplary Mathematics ProgramEstablish Measures of SuccessPart II: Support Visionary Professional Learning for Teachers and Teacher LeadersEngage Teachers in Worthwhile and Differentiated Professional LearningDevelop Highly Skilled and Highly Effective Mathematics LeadersBuild Capacity of Site-Based Administrators and District LeadersPart III: Develop Systems for Activating the VisionLeverage Team ActionsCreate and Implement Well-Designed Curriculum and AssessmentsMonitor Consistent Expectations for Exemplary InstructionPart IV: Empower the Vision of Family and Community EngagementActivate the Student Voice to Check Alignment Between Vision and RealityEmpower Families as Informed AdvocatesBuild and Engage a Strong Network of PartnershipsEpilogueAppendix A: Vision for Teaching and Learning MathematicsAppendix B: Cognitive DemandAppendix C: Planning Template for ChangeAppendix D: Mathematics Professional Development Plan for a School Year