In this episode, Jon and Kyle dive deep into a conversation with James O’Neal, founder of Mastery for All, exploring the impact of prioritizing conceptual understanding in math education. 

James O'Neal, Jr. is a National Board-Certified middle school math teacher with 15 years of experience, currently teaching at Piedmont IB Middle School in Charlotte, NC. He holds an M.Ed. in Curriculum and Instruction from UNC-Charlotte and was a 2022 finalist for the Presidential Award for Excellence in Mathematics and Science Teaching (PAEMST). Founder of Mastery For All, LLC, James advocates for high expectations and equitable outcomes in education through public speaking nationwide.

James is here to share some insight on his upcoming session in the 2024 Make Math Moments Virtual Summit. 

They share personal stories and insights on how a focus on student outcomes can transform teaching practices and improve learning experiences.

You’ll learn:

• Discover how emphasizing conceptual understanding over memorization can change students' attitudes towards math.
• Learn practical strategies to help educators shift their teaching approaches to better meet the needs of all learners.
• Learn to practice the mantra: “If you can make sense of it, then you can help students make sense of it”.

Tune in to this episode of the Making Math Moments That Matter Podcast to revolutionize your approach to teaching math and better align your priorities with your educational goals.

Resources 

• Show Notes Page. 

District Math Leaders: 

How are you ensuring that you support those educators who need a nudge to spark a focus on growing their pedagogical-content knowledge? 

What about opportunities for those who are eager and willing to elevate their practice, but do not have the support? 

Book a call with our District Improvement Program Team to learn how we can not only help you craft, refine and implement your district math learning goals, but also provide all of the professional learning supports your educators need to grow at the speed of their learning. 

Book a short conversation with our team now. 

Love the show? Text us your big takeaway!

Are you wondering how to create K-12 math lesson plans that leave students so engaged they don’t want to stop exploring your math curriculum when the bell rings? In their podcast, Kyle Pearce and Jon Orr—founders of MakeMathMoments.com—share over 19 years of experience inspiring K-12 math students, teachers, and district leaders with effective math activities, engaging resources, and innovative math leadership strategies. Through a 6-step framework, they guide K-12 classroom teachers and district math coordinators on building a strong, balanced math program that grows student and teacher impact. Each week, gain fresh ideas, feedback, and practical strategies to feel more confident and motivate students to see the beauty in math. Start making math moments today by listening to Episode #139: "Making Math Moments From Day 1 to 180.