August 2025 President's Message

A Bold Vision for Mathematics Education: Daring to Lead Forward

As August warms us, I feel deep purpose and pride in our work as California Mathematics Council (CMC) members. Our commitment to high-quality, equitable mathematics education is more vital and inspiring than ever. Last month, several CMC leaders and I attended the NCSM Affiliates Leadership Conference in Denver, Colorado. The experience was invigorating and transformative. We returned with renewed urgency, connection, and vision for the road ahead.

Our conversations focused on three themes: growing membership, elevating engagement, and strengthening collaboration across states. These are not just goals—they are CMC’s strategic pillars in building a thriving professional community that leads, supports, and advocates for every mathematics learner in California. As President, I challenge the status quo—and invite you to join me.

Daring to Disrupt: A Courageous Approach to Mathematics Education

Education is evolving, and mathematics must, too. We must reimagine mathematics teaching and learning by dismantling outdated systems, elevating excluded voices, and creating environments where all students and educators thrive.

Being bold means using culturally responsive teaching, rejecting one-size-fits-all instruction, and favoring rich tasks that promote collaboration, critical thinking, and productive struggle. Every student—regardless of zip code, identity, or circumstance—should feel seen, heard, and capable in mathematics.

We must ask ourselves:

• How do we inspire joy and curiosity in mathematics?

• How do we ensure that math connects to students’ lives, cultures, and futures?

• How do we create classrooms where students are not only learning math but using it to understand and shape the world?

• 
  

Ultimately, these questions challenge us to rethink engagement—not only among our CMC members, but, most importantly, in our classrooms, where real transformation begins.

From Reflection to Action: Strengthening the CMC Community

The conversations in Denver brought clarity: now is the time for action. As we reflect on our impact and imagine the future, let’s commit to these steps: Maximize Membership.

Invite someone new to CMC. Whether a new teacher or a veteran, share the value of CMC. Each new member strengthens our voice and expands our collective power.

🔹 Elevate Engagement

Get involved—attend our conferences, join a committee, write for our publications, or participate in online discussions. Your ideas and leadership matter. Together, we strengthen this organization.

🔹 Deepen Collaboration

Let’s not limit ourselves by geography. Partner with educators in other counties or states. Learn from their experiences and share your own. The interstate collaboration we saw at NCSM is just the beginning—we are building new bridges and possibilities.

🔹 Lead with Courage

Every role is a leadership role. Mentor a colleague, advocate for an equitable curriculum, and speak up at school board meetings. The future of mathematics education is shaped by educators who dare to lead.

This Is Our Moment

The challenges in education are real—but so is our power. As passionate educators, we have what we need to transform mathematics learning in California. Let’s move beyond tradition to innovation. Let’s help students progress from compliance to empowerment. Let’s make mathematics a space of joy, justice, and relevance for every learner.

Let our actions launch us forward—a bold step and a declaration that we are committed to leading change.

With immense gratitude and unwavering hope,

Dr. Ma Bernadette Andres-Salgarino, NBCT

President, California Mathematics Council