Math Teacher Leader Network

Fostering the development of mathematics teacher leaders

The Los Alamos National Laboratory Math and Science Academy Math Teacher Leader Network (MTLN) helps develop mathematics teacher leaders and supports effective mathematics teaching and learning in participating schools

The MTLN is a three-year engagement in professional learning designed to further develop teachers'

1. Mathematical content and pedagogical knowledge
2. Use of effective math teaching practices
3. Use of collaborative approaches to improving teaching practice and student learning
4. Leadership knowledge and skills

It is also designed to support continuous improvement in schools.

Background

The MTLN was started in 2018 as a pilot project of LANL’s Math and Science Academy (MSA) to develop math teacher leaders in public elementary schools.

In 2023, the MTLN was modified to support a new cohort of teachers in attaining an elementary math specialist endorsement and a master’s degree and in developing math leadership skills and continuous improvement systems within their schools.

Pillars of the MTLN

• Enhanced teacher mathematics content knowledge
• Enhanced teacher math pedagogy
• Enhanced system for continuous improvement
• Enhanced math leadership

Anticipated Outcomes

• Teachers will develop a deeper understanding of mathematics and pedagogical content knowledge.
• Students of teachers participating directly or indirectly in the MTLN will improve their math learning, thinking, and reasoning.
• All teachers who complete the program will be eligible for an elementary math specialist endorsement.
• Participants will complete the program and earn a master’s degree in mathematics teacher leadership.
• Learning designs will be put in place to support continuous improvement of math teaching and learning (e.g., Math Study Cycles, Number Sense Labs).

Partnership with NM Highlands University and the NM Public Education Department

The MSA, in collaboration with New Mexico Highlands University, has developed a pathway for mathematics teacher leaders in the MSA Math Teacher Leader Network to obtain a Master of Arts in educational leadership with a concentration in mathematics teacher leadership. 

Additionally, after successfully completing the MTLN program, teachers are eligible to receive an elementary math specialist endorsement on their K–6 teaching license—a certification awarded by the NM Public Education Department.