Dr. Maria Timmerman, Program Director
434.395.2890, timmermanma@longwood.edu
The Elementary and Middle School Mathematics concentration is designed for the classroom teacher who wants to improve instructional skills as well as expand knowledge and skills in mathematics. Virginia teachers at the elementary and middle school levels must possess a deep understanding of the mathematics they are teaching, an understanding of how it connects to higher levels of mathematics, and a skillful use of methods to guide students in the learning. Well-prepared teacher leaders in a specialist’s role can have a significant influence on strengthening content, pedagogical, and assessment knowledge of those classroom teachers who are inadequately prepared to deliver significant mathematics programs. They can also provide the professional development that is critical for improving instruction and student learning. Applicants to this program must hold a valid Virginia Collegiate Professional Teaching License or equivalent from another state and have at least two years teaching experience including mathematics curriculum. Completion of this program along with at least three years teaching experience in elementary or middle school where the teaching of mathematics is a primary responsibility meets current eligibility requirements for the Postgraduate Professional Endorsement for Mathematics Specialist for Elementary and Middle Education.
Development of the mathematics courses for this program is the result of a cooperative arrangement by the University of Virginia, the University of Mary Washington, James Madison University, Norfolk State University, Virginia Commonwealth University, Virginia Tech, George Mason University and Longwood University. A consortium agreement with these partner institutions has established six jointly developed core mathematics courses as transferable across member institutions.
