As a new high school mathematics instructional coach in 2006, I was introduced to NCSM from colleagues around Oregon who were also in similar roles and with whom I worked on various state-level projects. At the time, instructional coaching was not well defined and I appreciated the insights into the role on the NCSM website as well as the coaching strand at conferences. From the resources and sessions NCSM provided, I grew practices related to teaching, assessing, and learning that in turn could be shared with the teachers in my school and district. Having been a member of NCTM and served on their editorial panel, I appreciated the similar visioning between the two organizations and NCSM’s strong supports for mathematics teacher-leaders.
Over time I became a K-12 district mathematics coach and now have opportunities to work with other schools as well. I continue to grow as an educator from the materials and conferences NCSM provides and from the network of people I have had the privilege to meet through the organization. In fact, the people I have met and now call friends and colleagues, have challenged me to continue to grow in my practices and even to explore leadership in the organization itself.
Since my introduction, I have grown to more deeply appreciate the welcoming spirit of NCSM and my shared belief with their mission that all students can learn mathematics. Conferences have become opportunities to learn from and grow friendships and a place to gather new ideas for working with educators in a way that is inspiring for the work ahead. I am honored to be a member of an organization that continues to strive toward working with mathematics teachers and leaders to help all students learn mathematics at high levels.