Teachers Attend International Math Conference
Establishing strong numeracy and mathematics foundations in the early years, fostering thinking classrooms in intermediate and secondary education, and integrating Indigenous perspectives into math instruction, were just some of the options being offered by prominent leaders in mathematical education on the recent provincial professional development day.
Educators from SD83, including teachers, a principal, and a director of instruction, attended the 63rd Annual Northwest Math Conference in Whistler, where they engaged in meaningful and inspirational professional development that can significantly impact student learning. These staff members were among over 1,500 attendees at the three-day event, held from October 24th to 26th.
The conference attracted math educators from across North America, including participants from British Columbia to the northern Canadian Territories, as far east as Newfoundland and Nova Scotia, and even as far south as the Bahamas.
The Northwest Math Conference takes place in British Columbia every three years, with the intervening years rotating between Washington State and Oregon. The 64th conference will be hosted in Tacoma, Washington, in 2025.
What draws 1,500 educators to Whistler in the fall, beyond the stunning coastal-mountain scenery and the vibrant village atmosphere wit its upscale hotels, shops, and restaurants? The answer lies in the opportunity to learn from renowned figures in math education, including Peter Liljedahl, Marian Small, Janice Novakowski, Christopher Danielson, Howie Hua, Chad Williams, and the duo Kyle Pearce and Jon Orr.
The diverse group of presenters addresses a wide range of instructional topics, from establishing strong numeracy and mathematics foundations in the early years to fostering thinking classrooms in intermediate and secondary education, and integrating Indigenous perspectives into math instruction – all of which promote inclusive, critical thinking and problem-solving competencies outlined in the District’s Strategic Plan. Regardless of the complexity of the topics or the targeted grade level, a prevailing theme throughout the sessions is that numeracy and mathematical understanding is attainable for all learners. As math educators, this is a goal they strive to achieve every day in their work with students.
