Two Chicks

Two Chicks & Arithmetic was born from the shared passion of two dedicated elementary school teachers (Julie & Shannon) who saw a crucial need in the classroom. We witnessed students struggle with mathematics, not due to a lack of potential, but because they lacked a deep, conceptual understanding of the subject. We knew that for students to truly excel, they needed to move beyond rote memorization and procedural learning to grasp the "why" behind the math. But we also recognized another critical gap: teachers needed the same deep understanding of conceptual math to effectively guide their students. We understood that to make a lasting impact on students, we first had to support and empower their educators. Driven by this dual mission, we created Two Chicks & Arithmetic. Our goal is to equip teachers with the knowledge, tools, and strategies they need to transform their math instruction. As coaches, we focus on developing teachers' understanding of conceptual math, enabling them to foster environments where every student can thrive. By working closely with educators through professional learning, collaborative co-planning, and ongoing support, we help them build the confidence and expertise necessary to create classrooms where math is meaningful, engaging, and accessible to all students. What began as two teachers' vision has evolved into a dynamic movement, dedicated to revolutionizing math education by empowering both students and teachers. Together, we're making a lasting impact, one classroom at a time.

At Two Chicks, our mission is to empower educators and school leaders with the expertise, resources, and strategies essential for driving student success and growth in mathematics. We are committed to building sustainable systems and nurturing a culture of continuous improvement, ensuring that every student recognizes their potential as a mathematician and thrives in their mathematical journey. Our approach is rooted in excellence, with a focus on modeling the 8 Effective Mathematical Teaching Practices. We celebrate each educator's strengths, identify and support areas of growth, and uplift teacher expertise, all while maintaining a commitment to the highest standards of education. Through our dynamic teaching style, we emphasize hands-on, collaborative learning that actively engages educators in the process. By combining collaborative co-planning, targeted professional learning, and close partnerships with leadership teams, we work to transform mathematics instruction. Our goal is to create vibrant, supportive learning environments where both students and teachers can excel, fostering a deep, enduring love for mathematics.

Julie has over 22 years experience in the elementary school setting as a teacher and a Curriculum Facilitator. Julie holds a bachelor's and a master's degree in Elementary Education with an emphasis in Instruction and Curriculum. She earned a Rank I with National Board Certification in Literacy. She also has an endorsement in Gifted & Talented Education and holds certification through the National Institute for School Leadership (NISL), Principal Administration and Carnegie Improvement Science. She has served as an Educational Recovery Specialist for the Kentucky Department of Education’s Office of Continuous Improvement for six years. She continues to be a lifelong learner by establishing a partnership as an Educational Consultant. Shannon has over 20 years experience serving in various capacities in elementary education, including teacher and coach. In 2015, she earned her PhD in Curriculum and Instruction with a focus in elementary math. She is certified through the National Institute for School Leadership (NISL), the Kentucky Reading Project, and Carnegie Improvement Science. In addition, she was a participant in Mike Rutherford’s Leadership academy. Shannon is Level I Google Certified and proficient in many digital tools. In 2019, she joined the Educational Recovery team to support schools in Kentucky's bottom 5%. She has worked in several schools to help leaders develop systems and processes that promote student academic achievement and growth. In the summer of 2022 she began her journey as an Educational Consultant.