DeAnn Huinker, UWM professor of mathematics education, is one of the speakers at an Education Week webinar focusing on the inconsistencies and inequities in mathematics education. The session is set for May 26 at 1 p.m. CDT. The webinar will look at launching children on mathematics journeys, creating equitable structures and instruction and developing deep mathematical instruction.

The focus is on a series of books from the National Council of Teachers of Mathematics, covering teaching and learning issues across all grade levels. Huinker is the lead author of one of the books in the series, “Catalyzing Change in Early Childhood and Elementary Mathematics: Initiating Critical Conversations.”

Webinar participants will discuss the book’s key recommendations for changes in school mathematics for elementary learners:

• Help every child develop deep understanding as confident and capable learners; understand and critique the world through mathematics and experience the wonder, joy and beauty of mathematics.
• Early childhood and elementary mathematics should dismantle inequitable structures including ability groups and tracking.
• Mathematics instruction should be consistent with research-informed and equitable teaching practices that nurture children’s positive mathematical identities.
• Early childhood settings and elementary schools should build a strong foundation of deep mathematical understanding, emphasize reasoning and sense-making and ensure the highest-quality mathematics education for each and every child.

Other presenters include Sarah B. Bush, an associate professor at the University of Central Florida and a board member of the National Council of Teachers of Mathematics; and Trena Wilkerson, president of the National Council of Teachers of Mathematics.

Huinker will also lead a NCTM online seminar on the topic on May 27 at 6 p.m. CDT.