My first experience with NCSM was in Salt Lake City in 2008, where I discovered it as a place to engage directly with thought leaders in mathematics education. From the beginning, I found that these experts were not only willing to talk with me and answer my questions about their work but also genuinely interested in listening to my own ideas about teaching and learning. The community atmosphere at NCSM, from conference-wide lunches to the camaraderie among members, made it clear that people join NCSM because they are passionate about learning from one another. Over time, I developed professional relationships and friendships with others in NCSM, gaining thought partners who have been instrumental in my growth as an educator. I vividly remember attending a session where a particularly provocative comment sparked a lively discussion among my friends and me—this kind of deep, intellectual exchange is what makes NCSM special.
NCSM has profoundly influenced my work with Mathkind Global, the nonprofit I cofounded. I’ve always appreciated how NCSM builds connections and encourages members to ask questions, challenge ideas, and apply best practices in ways that resonate with their local communities and cultures. This approach aligns perfectly with Mathkind’s mission. At Mathkind, our programs are designed to expose educators to best practices while empowering them to become active participants by adapting the knowledge to their cultural contexts. The community-building and collaborative spirit of NCSM are at the heart of what we do at Mathkind.
