About the Webinar:

In this presentation, participants were equipped with best practices for supporting the learning and teaching of the B.E.S.T. Standards for Mathematics, including the Mathematics Formula for Success. The session also included discussions and the sharing of effective coaching strategies.

Mastering Mathematics: Transformative Coaching Conversations

Presenter:
    Natalie Alday, 6-8 Mathematics Specialist, Office of Mathematics and Sciences, Florida Department of Education, Bureau of Standards and Instructional

Date/Time: November 20, 2024
Conference: 2024 FL Charter School Conference
View The Recording:
Session Summary

This presentation, "Mastering Mathematics: Transformative Coaching Conversations," by Natalie Alday, 6-8 Mathematics Specialist at the Florida Department of Education, explores best practices for supporting the learning and teaching of the B.E.S.T. Standards for Mathematics. The session begins with Alday emphasizing the importance of having a common understanding of coaching in the context of mathematics instruction.

The presentation then shifts to defining the key ingredients of successful coaching, including content knowledge, communication skills, and the ability to observe, provide feedback, and support teachers' growth. The presenters highlight essential qualities such as courage, trustworthiness, and the ability to analyze data and facilitate the implementation of goals.

The session also introduces the "Formula for Success," a framework that encompasses five characteristics of high-quality instruction: horizontal and vertical alignment, balanced instructional approaches, student-centered instruction, instruction informed by assessment, and tiered instruction. The presenters emphasize the importance of utilizing various data types to understand student needs and tailor instruction accordingly.

The presentation then explores the role of feedback in both the classroom and coaching settings. The presenters highlight the need for timely, specific, and individualized feedback that considers the unique needs of both students and teachers.

The session concludes with a discussion of the "Mathematical Thinking and Reasoning Coaching Tool" as a resource for enhancing coaching practices. The presenters emphasize their role in supporting math, science, and computer science instruction and encourage attendees to reach out for assistance in any content area.

Key takeaways for attendees include:

  • Developing a shared understanding of effective coaching practices in mathematics.
  • Identifying the key ingredients and qualities of successful coaches.
  • Understanding and implementing the "Formula for Success" framework for high-quality mathematics instruction.
  • Providing timely, specific, and individualized feedback to support both student and teacher growth.
  • Utilizing available resources, such as the "Mathematical Thinking and Reasoning Coaching Tool," to enhance coaching practices.