PRESIDENT'S MESSAGE

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Dear CMC Family,

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Stories have the power to shape perspectives, bridge divides, and inspire action. As we continue our mission to elevate mathematics education, we must recognize the role storytelling plays in transforming leadership and strengthening our partnerships within the community. 

Early this month, I had the privilege of presenting at the California Association of Asian and Pasifika Leaders in Education (CAAPLE) Conference in San Jose on the topic Unleashing the Power of Story: Transforming Leadership and Community Partnerships. In that session, we explored how authentic narratives can serve as catalysts for change, helping leaders cultivate trust, foster collaboration, and build inclusive, impactful relationships. Today, I want to extend that conversation to our mathematics education community, where storytelling has the potential to promote empathy, inspire motivation, and drive meaningful engagement in our classrooms and beyond.

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Honoring Black History Month

February is also a time to celebrate Black History Month, a moment to honor the contributions,

resilience, and achievements of Black leaders, educators, and mathematicians who have

shaped our world. Throughout history, storytelling has been a vital tool for preserving Black

voices, experiences, and innovations in mathematics and Science, Technology, Engineering,

Arts, and Mathematics (STEAM). From pioneers like Benjamin Banneker and Katherine

Johnson to contemporary leaders who continue to break barriers, these stories serve as a

source of inspiration and empowerment for all learners.

As we reflect on the impact of Black mathematicians, we must also recognize the importance of creating inclusive spaces where students of all backgrounds see themselves represented in the field. By sharing the stories of Black excellence in mathematics, we reaffirm our commitment to equity, representation, and the transformative power of education.

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Promoting Empathy and Understanding

Mathematics is often perceived as a rigid and impersonal discipline, defined by numbers, formulas, and procedures. However, behind every mathematical discovery, every solved equation, and every learning journey, there is a story. The narratives of students who struggle, persevere, and ultimately succeed in mathematics create powerful connections that humanize the subject. As educators, we must harness these stories to promote empathy and understanding in our classrooms.

When we listen to the stories of students from diverse backgrounds—those who face barriers to access, those who navigate learning challenges, or those who find joy and curiosity in mathematical thinking—we create a culture of belonging. Storytelling allows us to meet students where they are, validate their experiences, and tailor our teaching approaches to support their growth. More than just a tool for instruction, stories cultivate emotional connections that make mathematics education more meaningful and accessible.

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Building Bridges Across Differences

The power of storytelling extends beyond the classroom and into our broader communities. As we work to strengthen partnerships between educators, families, policymakers, and industry leaders, we must acknowledge the diversity of perspectives and lived experiences that shape our collective understanding of mathematics education.

Authentic storytelling fosters dialogue that transcends differences in background, experience, and ideology. By sharing personal and cultural narratives, we break down misconceptions and create common ground. When a teacher shares their journey of overcoming mathematics anxiety, a parent recounts the challenges of supporting their child’s learning, or a student tells their story of finding confidence through mathematics, we begin to see each other not as separate entities but as interconnected parts of a larger ecosystem.

These bridges built through storytelling strengthen community partnerships and reinforce the idea that math education is not an isolated endeavor—it is a shared responsibility that benefits from diverse voices and perspectives.

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Inspiring and Motivating Action

At its core, storytelling is a call to action. The most compelling narratives are those that move us to do something—to rethink our approaches, to challenge inequities, and to strive for better outcomes. In leadership and education, storytelling can inspire advocacy for policies that support equitable math instruction, encourage community investment in STEAM initiatives, and motivate students to see themselves as mathematicians and problem solvers.

When we amplify stories of resilience and achievement, we empower individuals and communities to believe in their own potential. Whether it is through sharing research-backed success stories, highlighting the voices of underrepresented groups in mathematics, or showcasing the impact of mentorship and collaboration, storytelling serves as a force for change. It transforms passive awareness into active engagement, mobilizing efforts toward a future where all learners have the opportunity to thrive in mathematics.

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Transforming Leadership and Partnerships

Leadership in mathematics education is not just about policies, curriculum, or instruction—it is about the people at the heart of those efforts. Effective leaders use storytelling to inspire, guide, and connect with those they serve. A leader who shares their personal journey in mathematics, their passion for education, and their vision for the future brings authenticity to their work and fosters a sense of shared purpose.

Similarly, community partnerships flourish when built on trust and understanding. Whether working with local businesses, nonprofit organizations, or parent groups, weaving narratives into our collaborations helps align goals and values. It turns abstract initiatives into tangible, relatable missions that people are eager to support. By embedding storytelling into leadership practices, we transform our networks into vibrant communities that are united in their dedication to improving mathematics education.

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A Call to Action

                                                                                           As we move forward in 2025, I encourage each of you—educators,                                                                                               administrators, parents, and community members—to embrace the                                                                                             power of storytelling in your work. Share your experiences, listen to                                                                                               the voices of those around you, and seek out the narratives that                                                                                                   illuminate new possibilities in mathematics education. Let us also                                                                                                 take time this month to uplift and celebrate the stories of Black                                                                                                     mathematicians and educators whose contributions continue to                                                                                                   shape our field.

                                                                                           By doing so, we will not only strengthen our leadership and                                                                                                           partnerships but also inspire the next generation of learners to see                                                                                               math as a subject that is rich with meaning, connection, and                                                                                                         possibility.

Let’s continue to build a community where every story is valued, and every voice contributes to a brighter future for mathematics education.

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With gratitude and respect,

Ma Bernadette Andres-Salgarino, Ed.D., NBCT

President, California Mathematics Council

@salg274