Title: Mathematics Teacher
Position: Marc T. Atkinson Middle School, Cartwright Elementary School District, Phoenix, Arizona
Questions: What experiences with students and colleagues have influenced your commitment to equity and access for the mathematics education of all learners, in particular Hispanic/Latino students? How will this impact your leadership of TODOS if elected?
Bob's Response: I graduated from Merrimack College in Massachusetts with a psychology degree and minors in education and philosophy. During my undergraduate studies, the works of Kozol and Freire had a strong impact on me.
My teaching career began in 1974 at Holy Angels Catholic School in Chicago. After teaching in Chicago and Milwaukee for eight years, I moved to Phoenix.
I earned my M.Ed. in elementary education from ASU. My coursework included four mathematics education classes. These helped me refine my teaching skills and strengthen my content knowledge, as did my participation in the Phoenix Urban Systemic Initiative.
Through the USI, I was part of a Phoenix group attending EMELI - The Equity in Mathematics Education Leadership Institute. Working with EMELI leaders from across the country helped me reflect on the importance of being a vocal proponent for equity in mathematics education. The problems caused by racism, classism and sexism cannot be ignored.
I have been involved with TODOS since its inception in 2002, working with other members in all facets of the organization. My activities include: speaking at conferences, helping organize the TODOS booth, attending board meetings and chairing the membership committee.
My 36 years as a classroom teacher have been in low-income schools, where students of color are the majority. I look forward to continuing my work in helping TODOS fulfill its mission - helping educators realize the importance of equity in mathematics education and our ability to foster students’ proficiency in rigorous and coherent mathematics.
