PRESIDENT'S MESSAGE

 

Dear CMC Family,

 

In light of the recent election results and the potential changes it may bring, I want to reaffirm our unwavering commitment to the California Mathematics Council's (CMC) transformative vision. Regardless of the political landscape, our shared mission remains clear and resolute: to ensure that every student in California becomes mathematically competent, confident, and empowered.

 

The CMC has long believed that all students can excel in mathematics with a rigorous and challenging program supported by high expectations. Now, more than ever, we as a community must come together, working toward this vision through the lens of the California Mathematics Framework. This framework emphasizes three core dimensions of systemic change that are crucial for building a more equitable, effective, and inspiring mathematics education:

 

1. An Assets-Based Approach to Instruction  

At the CMC, we recognize that each student brings unique strengths, perspectives, and experiences to their learning. Educators must leverage these assets by fostering environments that validate and build upon students' knowledge. By approaching instruction with an emphasis on what students can do, we elevate their confidence and foster a more profound sense of belonging and pride in their mathematical journeys.

 

2. Active Student Engagement through Investigation and Connection 

Mathematics should be an engaging, dynamic exploration of ideas—not a passive experience. We believe that students learn best when actively investigating problems, asking questions, and making connections between concepts. This means creating classrooms alive with curiosity, where students feel encouraged to think critically, collaborate, and take ownership of their learning. By prioritizing inquiry-based learning, we prepare students to understand mathematics and apply it meaningfully in their lives.

 

3. Instruction that Centers on Cultural and Personal Relevance 

To make mathematics meaningful and accessible, it must be culturally and personally relevant to our students. Mathematics learning is enriched when connected to students' diverse backgrounds and lived experiences. Integrating cultural relevance into our instruction, we help students see themselves in the subject and recognize how mathematics applies to their world. This improves engagement and promotes a sense of inclusivity and respect within our learning environments.

 

These pillars of change are essential to our progress, and they underscore the critical role of the CMC in advocating for a mathematics education system that serves every student equitably. As we move forward, our collective efforts are more crucial than ever. 

 

We are committed to:

• Promoting professional activities that ensure continual growth and excellence in math instruction across California. The recent CMC South Conference in Palm Springs brought together at least 2,300 educators to boldly discuss approaches to modernizing mathematics teaching. 

• Communicating openly with educators, parents, policymakers, and communities on the importance of teaching rigorous, engaging mathematics and

• We are expanding diversity within our membership and leadership to reflect and serve our state's breadth of experiences and backgrounds.

 

This is a time for unity and renewed dedication to our shared goals. Together, we can create classrooms that inspire, empower, and prepare our students to succeed in a rapidly changing world. Let us continue to move forward with purpose, embodying the belief that all students have the potential to become confident, capable mathematicians.

 

Thank you for your commitment, resilience, and passion for education. Let us make an impact together.

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With warmth and gratitude,

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

President, California Mathematics Council

@salg274​

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