CMC Elections for 2024 - 25

The California Mathematics Council conducts elections of state and section officers every two years in odd numbered years. Voting begins September 1 and ends October 1. All current members, as of September 1, can vote for state officers. Section officers are elected by the members residing in that section based on mailing addresses. Out of state members may only vote for state officers. At the top of each section's slate of candidates on this page, the counties included in the section are listed if you are not sure to which section you belong. Once you are ready to vote, click the "Vote Now" button to cast your ballot.

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CMC State Candidates

President-Elect

Hilda Wright

Bakersfield

Hilda Wright is honored to be running for CMC State Board President. She has dedicated the past 30 years to education as a bilingual aide, middle school math teacher, math coach, district math specialist, and a math coordinator. Hilda has been a member of CMC for many years and believes in their mission and commitment to teaching and learning of mathematics. She is currently the CMC-Central Section President and serves on the CMC State Board’s Equity and Social Transformation Subcommittee. Prior to her role on the Board, she served on the Kern County Math Council as Vice President, President, and Past President. Hilda is a member of the National Council of Teachers of Mathematics and is currently serving on the Program Planning Committee for NCTM Chicago 2024. She is also a member of TODOS-Mathematics for All and serves on their teacher awards committee. Hilda is passionate about both students and adults believing in their ability to do math and see themselves as mathematicians. She focuses on the beauty of math to include problem solving, thinking, reasoning, and collaboration as part of our everyday lives. Hilda cares deeply about humanizing and building strong identities around mathematics where every learner has access and equitable opportunities to be a mathematician. She currently works as a Math Coordinator for the Kern County Superintendent of Schools and is an adjunct faculty member at California State University Bakersfield where she teaches the math methods and assessment course to pre-service teachers. In addition, Hilda served on several committees for the state of California; the Academic Content Standards Committee, the Math Focus Framework Group, and the Board for California Commission for Teacher Credentialing. She is excited about serving at the state level and hopes to bring a positive energy and joy to the mathematics community.

Elizabeth Gamino

Fresno

I am honored to run for CMC President-Elect for California Mathematics Council. I have been a longstanding member of CMC for over twenty years, joining as a teacher, where I attended the CMC conferences. In the early 2000s, I began presenting at Central Valley Symposiums and North and South Conferences. Since then, I have had the opportunity to serve as Vice President (2017-2019) and Treasurer (2019-2021) for the Central section. Currently, I hold the positions of Co-Chair of the Equity and Social Transformation Committee and Representative for TODOS.

I am the Program Manager for Interventions in Educational Services at Selma Unified and an Adjunct Professor at Fresno Pacific University. In addition to the abovementioned roles, I have served as a Math/Science Curriculum Manager and Research Associate. Throughout my career, I have focused on mathematics research, teaching, and advocating for diversity in education. I am passionate about changing narratives and breaking down the barriers in education to ensure that all students have equitable access to relevant, rigorous, high-quality instruction.

I am confident I am committed to serving with passion and purpose while upholding the mission of CMC, ultimately resulting in CMC being here for future generations of math educators and strengthening and building math communities at the local, state, and national levels.

As the President-Elect, I am committed to serving with enthusiasm and a clear sense of purpose. I promise to uphold CMC's vision and legacy of leadership, ensuring it remains a valuable resource for future generations of math educators.

I appreciate your consideration.

Anchor 1

Secretary

Jenny Cheng

San Jose

I attended my first CMC conference in 2004, which was unlike any other conference I had been to before. For the first time in my professional journey, I felt like I found my tribe. Surrounded
by hundreds of like-minded educators, I was enthralled with the mathematical conversations I was a part of and spellbound by all the learning I was immersed in. Nearly twenty years later, I
can still recall the vibrant energy and strong community, and it left a truly indelible mark on me as a teacher. I returned to class that Monday and committed myself to honing my skills to be
the best mathematics teacher I could.

That decades-old memory is a testament to the power of CMC and its pursuit to transform mathematics learning for all learners. It is in this pursuit that I am writing to express my enthusiastic interest in serving as the Secretary of the California Mathematics Council for the 2024-2025 term. As a passionate advocate for mathematics education, I believe I have the qualifications and unique experiences necessary to fulfill the responsibilities of this critical role.

First and foremost, I bring a deep love for mathematics teaching and learning, and a fierce commitment for ensuring that all educators have access to the tools and resources for providing equitable, rigorous and humanizing mathematics instruction. In my current capacity as Assistant Director of Professional Learning with the Silicon Valley Mathematics Initiative, I have the immense pleasure and honor of helping school systems shape their approach to mathematics and serve the needs of all their learners. I draw on the expertise from my previous positions as a Mathematics Coordinator for the Santa Clara County Office of Education (SCCOE), as well as a mathematics coach and teacher in private, independent, and public institutions here in the Bay Area, Southern CA, and abroad.

With my experiences as a mathematics teacher, I have witnessed firsthand the transformative power of a high quality mathematics education when coupled with a clear vision of equity, inclusivity, and humanizing practices. I have seen how it can inspire creativity & inquisitiveness, foster analytical thinking and innovation, and empower students to become confident and complex problem solvers. If given the opportunity to serve as Secretary, I will work tirelessly to promote the CMC’s vision of mathematics learning and strive to ensure that all students have access to high-quality instruction.

In addition to my academic background, I possess strong organizational and communication skills that are essential for the Secretary position. Throughout my career, I have honed my ability to manage multiple tasks simultaneously, maintain accurate records, and coordinate effective communication channels. I understand the importance of clear and timely communication in fostering collaboration and building a strong mathematics community. As Secretary, I will strive to streamline processes, improve transparency, and ensure that the council's members are well-informed about upcoming events, initiatives, and resources.

Collaboration and teamwork are at the core of any successful organization. I firmly believe in the power of collective wisdom and the benefits that arise from working together towards a common goal. I am excited to collaborate with the talented and dedicated members of the California Mathematics Council to address the challenges facing mathematics education and to develop innovative solutions. As Secretary, I will actively seek input from council members, value diverse perspectives, and promote an inclusive environment where every voice is heard.

In conclusion, I am honored to be considered for the role of Secretary for the California Mathematics Council. I am confident that my passion for mathematics education, organizational skills, collaborative mindset, and commitment to lifelong learning make me a strong candidate for this position. I look forward to the opportunity to contribute to the council's mission and work alongside fellow members in advancing mathematics education in California.

Thank you for your consideration.

Christina Lincoln-Moore

Los Angeles

I have had the honor to serve as the Secretary of the California Mathematics Council (CMC) for the last four years under the extraordinary Presidential leadership of Christine Roberts and Bruce Grip. CMC plays a key role in national advocacy for mathematics, research, and education. My professional goals align well with the mission of the CMC. I am devoted to mathematics research, teaching, and outreach. I am dedicated to mentoring a diverse group of young mathematicians and building the capacity of educators and parents. Throughout my 27 years with the Los Angeles Unified School District (LAUSD), I was an elementary teacher (17 ½ yrs), mathematics coach (1½ yrs), Assistant Principal (5 yrs), and Principal (3 yrs). I am currently the Elementary Mathematics Coordinator for the Los Angeles County Office of Education (LACOE). I am a featured speaker nationwide at such conferences as National Council of Teachers of Mathematics (NCTM) Annual, National Council of Supervisors of Mathematics (NCSM), and CMC conferences. Below, I have included a little more information about myself for your kind attention:

Publications:

Rivera, G. & Lincoln-Moore, C. (2022) Empowering Students Through Culturally Relevant Practices. In NCSM (Eds), National Council of Supervisors of Mathematics Essential Actions Series: Culturally Relevant Leadership in Mathematics Education. (pp. 27-55). National Council of Supervisors of Mathematics.
Lincoln-Moore, C. (2021). CMC in Memoriam: Remembering Dina Williams. California Mathematics Council (CMC) ComMuniCator, 46(1).
Towle, S., Lincoln-Moore, C. & Williams, D. (2020) Guiding Principle 3: Empower. In NCSM (Eds), National Council of Supervisors of Mathematics Essential Actions Series: Framework for Leadership in Mathematics Education. (pp. 63-82). National Council of Supervisors of Mathematics.
Lincoln-Moore, C. (2020) Connection before Content & Mindfulness before Management, National Council of Supervisors of Mathematics, (NCSM) Inspiration, Summer 2020
Lincoln-Moore, C. (2018), Talk Number to Me: Mathematics and Mindfulness, Feature Story Women of Color in Mathematics, National Council of Supervisors of Mathematics, (NCSM) Publication, Summer 2018
Lincoln-Moore, C. (2017). Talk Number to Me: Mathematics and Mindfulness. California Mathematics Council (CMC) ComMuniCator. 43(3).

Invited Reviewer

Delano Moore, S., Rimbey, K. (2022). Mastering Math Manipulatives: Hands-On and Virtual Activities for Building and Connecting Mathematical Ideas. Corwin Mathematics and National Council of Teachers of Mathematics.
Lavin Brave, K & Miller, J. (2022). Using Fermi Questions to Foster Community. Mathematics Teacher: Learning & Teaching PK-12 (MTLT), 115(11), 801-807.
Luzniak, C. (2020). Up For Debate! Stenhouse Publishers.
ORIGO Mathematics Curriculum (2022) Stepping Stones Content Review
Seda, P., & Brown, K (2021) Choosing to See: A Framework for Equity in the Math Classroom. Dave Burgess Consulting, Inc.
Singh, S. (2021). Chasing Rabbits: A Curious Guide to a Lifetime of Mathematical Wellness. IMPress Books.
Singh, S., & Brownell, C. (2019). Math recess: Playful learning in an age of disruption. IMPress Books.
Torres, A., Nguyen, H., Hull Barnes, E. and Wentworth, L. (2022). A Guide to De-tracking Math Courses: The Journey to Realize Equity and Access in Mathematics. Corwin Mathematics

Educational Community Involvement

Black Womxn in Mathematics Education (BWXME), Co-Founder, Mathematical Entrepreneurial Mentorship and Sisterhood, 2020
National Council of Supervisors of Mathematics, Board Member, Western Region 2 Regional Representative
National Council of Teachers of Mathematics, Mathematics Teacher Learning Teaching (MTLT) PK-12 Manuscript Reviewer
Corwin Mathematics: SAGE Publishing Company, Book Reviewer
State Board Secretary of the California Mathematics Council, 2020-2024
Equity, Access and Empowerment Chairperson of the California Mathematics Council Southern Section (CMC-S)
National Society of Black Engineers Jr (NSBE), Southern California Chapter Founder, STEM projects/competitions. NSBE Jr. SoCal provides STEM enrichment to 50 6th-12th graders
Vice-President of Girls In Flight for Tomorrow (GIFT), a non-profit organization in association with the Los Angeles International Airport (LAX) Flight Path Learning Center and Museum, which focuses on educating young ladies between the ages of 8 to 17 on career choices offered by the aviation and aerospace industries.
West Regional Director of the Benjamin Banneker Association (BBA); an affiliate of NCTM 2016-2018, Member 2014- present
Invited speaker on numerous webinars/podcasts: Global Math Department, NCSM, NCTM, Amplify, Carnegie Learning, Math Moments That Matter, Carnegie, Knowledgehook

I humbly ask for your vote. I pledge to continue to serve as CMC’s Secretary with dedication, efficiency and driven by my commitment to “increasing the diversity of membership of the California Mathematics Council and the diversity of leadership in mathematics education at the local, state, and national levels.” Thank you for your consideration. May love and wisdom always guide you! Be well!

Treasurer

Scott Ellingson

Fresno

It is a great honor to be asked to run for another term as CMC State Treasurer. My career has provided experiences as an elementary and high school classroom teacher, a Mathematics Specialist, and an Alternative Education site Principal. Those tenures have helped shape a broad perspective and provide a better understanding of the continuing challenges and successes educators experience in our evolving mathematics landscape. Returning to classroom teaching last year reinforced what an amazing profession this is, along with how challenging it is, how important a supportive teaching community is, and how necessary it is to continue to learn and hone our skills so we can be the sharpest for our students and mathematical community.

Current and prior experiences will be a guide and provide perspective to my contributions to CMC as it continues to support the present and future educators of California through CMC’s advocacy, research, and vision of what the future of mathematics education can be in our great state. We have seen so much change in the education and mathematics landscape over these years and being a support for educators, understanding their needs, and being a resource is one of the things that CMC continues to do.

The State Treasurer position is about support for sections, affiliates, and CMC committees to use your dues in a fiscally desirable way. It’s about “fun” topics like insurance, payroll, scholarships, awards, and making sure bills are paid on time.

The position is more importantly about representation. CMC’s members and affiliates are an amazing group of people, and one that I am very proud to represent. It’s also about helping provide a voice to and perspective from the educators in the Central Valley/Central Section and beyond that may not be members, or even heard of CMC. Bringing feedback forward to Council is one of the best things we can do for our educational community to remain relevant and useful to our mathematical community. When it really comes down to it, it’s all about supporting educators and students in reaching their goals.

These responsibilities I take great honor and respect in and I would be pleased to serve as your State Treasurer and appreciate your support.

CMC North Candidates

North Section Includes Counties of: Alameda, Alpine, Butte, Colusa, Contra Costa, Del Norte, El Dorado, Glenn, Humboldt, Lake, Lassen, Marin, Mendocino, Modoc, Monterey, Napa, Nevada, Placer, Plumas, Sacramento, San Benito, San Francisco, San Mateo, Santa Clara, Santa Cruz, Shasta, Sierra, Siskiyou, Solano, Sonoma, Sutter, Tehama, Trinity, Yolo, Yuba

North Anchor

President Elect

Claudia Bertolone-Smith

Chico

Hello! My name is Claudia Bertolone-Smith and I am honored to be considered for the position of president-elect for CMC-N. I have been involved with CMC-N since 2018 and I have served on the T-shirt design committee and am currently the chair of the Pre-Service Teacher Volunteer committee for the CMC-N Asilomar Conference. I am also a proud member of the Mount Lassen Math Council and have been honored to serve as the president of MLMC for two years, and am currently president-elect. As president of MLMC, I gained valuable experience organizing and hosting two successful conferences- one online (2020) and one in Chico, CA this past January (2023).

I was a classroom teacher for 24 years (grades 1-7) and math has always been my favorite subject to teach. I have a BS in elementary education, a masters’ degree in mathematics education, and a PhD in Curriculum, Teaching, and Learning with a focus on mathematics education. I am currently an assistant professor in the School of Education at CSU Chico where I teach the math methods courses in the credential program and serve as the Multiple Subjects Coordinator.

Vice President

Nicole Sebek

San Jose

I consider it an honor to run for Vice President. I have been a teacher in Math and Computer Science to 7-12 grades for the last 10 years and during this time I have continued to seek out and attend professional development. Attending Asilomar and seeing the inspiration it draws from those at my school as well as those in the larger community is always very rewarding. I would be honored to help out the northern chapter by helping the northern chapter.

Secretary

Jinne Webb

Sacramento

Greetings! My name is Jinne Webb. My main passion in life is to love others and mentor them in their growth. Because of this, I have worked in public education for 15 years and worked as a math coach for the last two years. I love when students say, “I get it now!” This passion also drives my relationship with CMC North.

My first contact with CMC was an unassuming invitation in the Fall of 2019 to come hear Jo Boaler talk more about math. Being in a room of educators felt empowering and joyful! After attending the CMC Far North Fall conference, I volunteered to help create conferences as exciting as my first CMCFN conference. This led to a relationship with like-minded educators that endured the pandemic, members moving to other states, and officers transitioning to new CMC-N roles.

When I relocated from Humboldt County to Sacramento County, it was difficult to leave my group of friends and co-creators behind. Luckily I didn't have to! Mary Ann, our CMCFN president (then CMC North President) reached out and kept me active with CMCFN and then CMC North. For the 2022 and 2023 CMC North conferences in Asilomar. I worked as part of the Audio-Visual team for the conferences. I was a part of bringing exciting and engaging conferences to CMC North educators.

While CMC-N was still recovering from the pandemic, we were passionate about reviving/reinvigorating affiliates and nurturing CMC relationships. I enjoyed planning the 2023 CMC North Leadership Conference with these goals in mind. After the conference, I was encouraged to consider running for CMC North secretary. I didn’t feel like it was time (yet) to be called up to the “Big League”. After seeing how effortlessly Allison completed her role, I felt I had a lot to learn, and wanted to support my local affiliate (SAME). This year, I became our local affiliate’s (SAME) secretary. The SAME team is a strong network with years of working together. Our President is the former secretary and makes my job a breeze!

With my role as secretary in SAME, my desire to build long term relationships and with my years working with the CMC North Board, I have a 83.7% complete picture of the responsibilities and requirements required to fulfill the CMC North secretary role. Allison’s shoes are a lot to fill, but I am up for the challenge!

Thank you for your consideration!

Treasurer

Dennis Kombe

Monterey

I am honored to seek re-election for a second term as Treasurer of CMC North. Throughout my first term, I have admired the dedication, collegiality, and hard work demonstrated by members and partners at all levels of the organization, including at the state level, section board(s), affiliates, and volunteers. I have developed a better understanding of the challenges that we face in making mathematics education more accessible to all students. While returning to in-person conferences and activities required considerable modifications in processes, it also provided the opportunity for ongoing improvement. If re-elected, in addition to giving back to an organization that has unrelentingly promoted good mathematics teaching and learning for California's students, I will prioritize fiscal accountability, seek ways to optimize resource allocation, collaborate with all stakeholders to support CMC North's financial well-being.

CMC Central Candidates

Central Section Includes Counties of: Amador, Calaveras, Fresno, Inyo, Kern, Kings, Madera, Mariposa, Merced, Mono, San Joaquin, San Luis Obispo, Stanislaus, Tulare, Tuolumne

Central Anchor

President

Cole Sampson

Bakersfield

As the Administrator of Professional Learning for the Kern County Superintendent of Schools, I have had the privilege of leading and overseeing the development and implementation of curriculum and instructional strategies in my previous position. This experience has equipped me with valuable insights into curriculum design, alignment with standards, and instructional best practices.

With a background as a Mathematics Coordinator, K-8 Principal, 6th-12th grade mathematics teacher, Director of Curriculum and Instruction, and Administrator of Professional Learning, I bring a wealth of knowledge and expertise to the table. My diverse experiences have provided me with a deep understanding of the educational landscape, curriculum design, instructional best practices, and the needs of both teachers and students.

As the CMC Vice-President, I have had the honor of serving in a leadership capacity within the organization. This role has provided me with valuable insights into the inner workings of CMC, its mission, and its goals. It has also allowed me to collaborate closely with other board members, gaining a deep understanding of the challenges and opportunities that exist in the math education landscape.

In addition to my role as CMC Vice-President, I also serve as the Central Symposium Chair. This position has further equipped me with the skills necessary to oversee and coordinate large-scale events, ensuring that they run smoothly and provide meaningful experiences for attendees. Through this role, I have been able to connect with educators from across the state, learning about their needs and aspirations.

I humbly request your support and vote, as it would enable me to utilize my diverse experiences in advocating for teachers and promoting equitable math education as the CMC President-Elect. Together, we can make a lasting impact on the field of mathematics education in California.

Vice President

Nick Lopez

Visalia

The California Mathematics Council has been a lifeline for many throughout the state to network and grow professionally. This organization has been vital to my own development as an educator and to serve as CMC-Central Vice President would be an honor.

Mathematics education is a passion near and dear to my heart. My 16-year educational journey began with Dinuba Unified School District as a Fourth-grade teacher and then as district instructional coach. I currently serve as a Mathematics Staff Development & Curriculum Specialist with Tulare County Office of Education, I strive to support teachers, administrators, and district leaders to examine their current systems to ensure that ALL students can gain access to a high-quality and equitable mathematics program.

If elected, I plan to carry forward the legacy of leadership and advocacy that is essential for this organization. Thank you for your consideration.

Secretary

Zenaida Gallardo

Bakersfield

I am excited to run for Secretary for the CMC-Central section. My career started as a teacher in South Central Los Angeles. It was from that very first year as a teacher that I knew that in order for me to be the teacher I wanted to be for my students, I would need support outside of the classroom. This journey would be a journey where I would have to lean on other educators for support and encouragement. I eventually moved back home to Kern County and taught several different grade levels, (K-6th, 7th/8th Mathematics) in several different school districts. My love and passion for mathematics moved me to become a Curriculum Specialist focusing on supporting teachers around the teaching and learning of mathematics. Being able to support teachers allowed me to do for teachers what other educators did for me. It was during these years that I attended my first CMC conference. I remember learning a lot, but also feeling like I belonged. After three years in that position, I was given the opportunity to join Kern County Superintendent of Schools as a Math Specialist and then Math Coordinator.

As a Math Coordinator, I get to work closely with teachers and administrators across the county to help every child in Kern County see themselves as powerful mathematicians. Along with this work, I also teach a Math Methods course at our local university, which allows me to work with preservice teachers. The California Math Council is still where I turn to for professional growth and for ways to better serve schools in Kern County. I’ve had the privilege to speak in both CMC-South and CMC-North, which has been incredibly rewarding. I am also the Media Coordinator of our local Kern County Math Council. The California Math Council welcomed me years ago with open arms and I want to do the same for others.

It would be an honor to serve as your CMC-Central Secretary, and I look forward to the opportunity to contribute to the organization and its members.

Stephanie Verners

Visalia

I have had the pleasure to serve as CMC Central Secretary for the past seven years. During this time, I have been able to represent the mathematics educators in our area and serve on the Outreach & Advocacy as well as the Equity & Social Transformation Committees. I am passionate about partnering with administrators and teachers alike, to provide an equitable math experience for all students.

I am currently in my 8th year as a Mathematics Staff Development and Curriculum Specialist for Tulare County Office of Education. As the director of the Central Valley Networked Improvement Community (CVNIC) College-Ready, I lead a collaboration of 14 high schools within Tulare, Fresno, Madera, and Merced counties working together to increase the number of Black, Latinx, and low-income students who are College-Ready On-Track as evidenced by acceptance into a four-year university. The GPA study from the Public Policy Institute of California states that the ‘c’ requirement of mathematics is the lowest a-g GPA and the lowest pass rate of a-g courses. These realities have established math as a long-standing barrier for students in their quest to successfully enter and complete college and career choices after high school graduation. This data and the continuing challenges that students face in the area of mathematics affirm my desire to continue to be a part of the California Mathematics Council to make a difference for California’s students and educators! In addition, CVNIC College-Ready is proud to partner with the National Equity Project, Hatching Results, and the Improvement Collective who have been tremendous mentors in supporting our work to improve equitable access for students in the central valley.

I began my career 24 years ago as a middle school mathematics teacher and served on the district mathematics vertical team. I also served as A.V.I.D. Coordinator and facilitated summer A.V.I.D. Institutes during the summer. I joined the Fresno County Office of Education as a mathematics coach for 3 years to support local educators in providing quality instruction in mathematics. I served as an elementary site administrator for 7 years. During my tenure, I supported my staff in making the shift to the California Common Core State Standards. Working for Tulare County Office of Education has provided extensive opportunities to work with multiple educational agencies to support the students of the Central Valley. I have also had the opportunity to serve as an instructor for the Madera County Office of Education-Bridges to Leadership Program, supporting educators to earn their administrative credential. In addition to presenting at CMC-South, and CMC-Central, I have co-presented at NCSM (2016), NCTM (2010), and CMC South (2022). Given my experiences and current work I am prepared to continue to serve CMC and be an advocate for our Central Valley students, educators, and leaders.

Treasurer

Stacie Doss

Modesto

I am thrilled for the opportunity to run for the position of Treasurer for the California Mathematics Council-Central Section for a second term. My career in education began in 2008 as a middle school Mathematics Teacher where I helped to instill a love for mathematics in my 6th, 7th, and 8th grade students. In 2016, I accepted a position as a K-12 Mathematics Coach. This new role allowed me to impact more students as I provided professional learning experiences to teachers to improve their understanding of the California Common Core State Standards and to implement effective research-based practices. My experience both in the classroom and as a Mathematics Coach helped me to hone the knowledge and skills that I use in my current role as a Math Project Coordinator for Stanislaus County Office of Education.

The California Mathematics Council has played a central role in my development as a math educator, both in the classroom and as a coach. I have attended many professional activities provided by CMC as a participant and a presenter. Over the past three years I have been able to work with the CMC-Central board to assist in the planning and implementation of the CMC Symposiums from a volunteers standpoint and now as the current CMC Central Treasurer. I value the impact that this amazing team has on so many educators throughout our state!

The California Mathematics Council plays a vital role not only in providing access to professional learning, but in communicating to educators, parents, policy makers, and the general public. I would be honored to continue to serve as the CMC-Central Treasurer to further this great work and to ensure that all students have access to engaging and equitable mathematics instruction.

CMC South Candidates

South Section Includes Counties of: Imperial, Los Angeles, Orange, Riverside, San Bernardino, San Diego, Santa Barbara, Ventura

South Anchor

President Elect

Peg Cagle

Reseda

I am currently a teacher in the Los Angeles Unified School District, but began my working life as an architect. After learning of the critical shortage of STEM teachers, I decided that I could make a greater difference teaching math in a large urban district. I am National Board Certified, a Math for America/Master Teacher, a Raytheon Math Hero, a USA-Today All-USA Teacher, and recipient of the Presidential Award for Excellence in Mathematics Teaching. I have been on the board of the National Council of Teachers of Mathematics and the Council of Presidential Awardees in Mathematics, an Albert Einstein Distinguished Educator Fellow on Capitol Hill, and a faculty member at Vanderbilt University. I am a teacher and department chair at Reseda High School, and the director of the Teacher Leadership Program of the Park City Mathematics Institute, an outreach program of the Institute for Advanced Study.

My love of mathematics and my drive to advocate on behalf of all students, fuel my choices. My training and work as an architect has made design thinking an integral part of how I approach every task. My deep classroom experience, enhanced by my work in the higher education and policy arenas, informs my view of the profession. My passionate belief that pushing back on programs, policies and societal attitudes that conspire to de-professionalize our work is imperative, spurs me to speak out whenever, and wherever I find an audience. And my fervent conviction that none of us alone is as smart as all of us together, inspires me to seek to work with others.

I would welcome the opportunity to lead CMC-S, seeking to sustain the legacy of our professional organization while also mapping a way forward. As a community of educators dedicated to providing meaningful and equitable learning of mathematics to each and every child across southern California, we must confront today’s challenges to k-16 education while simultaneously ensuring that CMC-S is sufficiently robust to not just survive, but thrive, as an organization. This will mean attending to our financial health, expanding the leadership capacity of our community, and amplifying our voice as advocates for our students and our profession.

Vice President

Nancy Paulson

San Marcos

Nancy began her teaching career at Westmorland K-8 School in the Imperial Valley. She moved to San Marcos Unified School district teaching 3rd -8th grades. She has her Supplemental Authorization for Mathematics and taught middle school math for 9 years. In 2012 Nancy completed her Masters degree, with an emphasis in K-8 Mathematics Education, from San Diego State University. Throughout her years of teaching, Nancy has been involved with CMC, and the Greater San Diego Mathematics Council (GSDMC), as a conference presenter and a member. She has been an integral part of GSCMC since 2006, after she was awarded an Outstanding Educator Award by the organization, program chair, and now President. Over the last few years, Nancy has contributed her energy to CMC-South by attending board meetings, helping out with the annual conference, and serving on the CMC Editorial Panel, writing and editing for the amazing CMC-ComMuniCator journal.

Secretary

Lauren Johnson

Fullerton

It is an absolute honor to run for the position of CMC South Secretary. I have taught in Alaska and Idaho, before returning to my home state of California. At my first CMC South Conference, I found a community of educators that pushed and encouraged me to become a better educator and human.

I have volunteered on the CMC South Conference Committee for the past 6 years, I have presented at CMC South, NCTM, and NCSM, as well as participating on the conference committee for the 2020 St. Louis (turned online) NCTM Annual Conference. I have taught in middle school and high school, and currently teach and support my fellow math teachers as a TOSA in the Fullerton Joint Union High School District.

I would like to continue to serve the CMC South community in this new capacity as Secretary. If elected, I will continue the strong foundations that precede me and expand the professional and humanizing community to others just as it was done for me, allowing CMC South to grow this formidable community it has cultivated.

Desiree Olivas

Santa Ana

Desiree Olivas has been an educator for 37 years. Currently she teaches 3rd grade for Santa Ana Unified School District. She has a broad range of experiences from teaching at international schools, in bilingual programs, up and down the grade levels to training and educating teachers and parents. Her graduate studies were in language acquisition and multi-language development, as well as mathematics education. She has provided teacher professional development in CGI, STEM, and Enrichment.

Dr. Olivas has been a member of NCTM and CMC for many years. She has been a presenter at conferences, and continues to serve on the CMC ComMuniCator editorial board. She supports National, State, and Local programs.

I enjoy being a part of a community of educators who cares about providing high quality, relevant mathematics education to all students. CMC should be a resource for math teachers. CMC provides access to relevant impactful research that informs, guides and changes teacher practices Math is for all learners. CMC supports the California State Mathematics Framework.

I have so many years working with multicultural and inner-city marginalized students that my teaching approach and philosophy are guided by how to best help students that they can and will be successful.

Treasurer

Jim Short

Ojai

I have been honored to serve as the CMC-South Treasurer for 8 years now, and would like to serve another 2 year term. The CMC vision of engaging and empowering all students in meaningful mathematical work is near and dear to my heart, and I have spent the last 30+ years learning more about what that means in order to share it with others and make a difference in the lives of all of our students, particularly those who are so often neglected and marginalized. There is still so much work that needs to be done, and I would like to continue doing a little in supporting that work through serving the maths teachers of Southern California as treasurer of our association!