The Math Cafe

Middle School Math: 7th Grade (Inclusion, Regular Ed, Gifted) - 5 Years 8th Grade (Inclusion, Regular Ed) - 5 Years 7th & 8th Grade (Gifted & High Achieving) - 3 Years

I believe in balance when teaching math--a balance between the systematic and the exploratory. My classroom has a routine, but variations of lesson styles within the general structure. I love asking "why" and then "why" again. I also believe in the power of positivity--complimenting hard work and giving attention to the good. Treating students as if you are on the same team instead of making it a point to exercise your authority over them always builds stronger relationships, and thus builds their confidence and performance. My trademark is developing spiraling and/or cumulative review. This shows up in daily starters, weekly/bi-weekly quizzes, and cumulative review study guides. If they don't keep practicing it, they'll lose it! The resources I make for TpT, I'm actually making for my own classroom--and I never sit down to make an activity without a copy of the standards (GSE/Common Core) in my hands!

School Teacher of the Year, 2015 - 2016 County Teacher of the year, 2016 - 2017 Outstanding Student Growth Percentile Recognition, 2015 - 2016

B.S. in Human Development, Licensed K-8 M.Ed. in Classroom Teaching Ed.S. in Curriculum & Instruction Gifted Endorsement

Originally from rural Western New York State, I now live in slightly less-rural Tennessee with my husband (who immigrated to the US from New Zealand!), our little daughter, and one cat. Five of my seven siblings and three cousins live close by with their families--the same people who aggravated me as a child are now my absolute best friends. Since the birth of my daughter, I have had the amazing opportunity to take time away from teaching and stay home with her. However, I still can't resist creating all of the resources I would be using if I were still in the classroom!