Students and faculty members from the School of Mathematical and Data Sciences traveled to Stonewall Resort March 14-15 for the annual West Virginia Council of Teachers of Mathematics Conference.
WVCTM is a state-level organization affiliated with the National Council of Teachers of Mathematics.
The conference hosts more than 350 mathematics educators from across the state ranging from pre-K through college, and features presentations from math educators at every level throughout the state.
The following students and faculty members presented at the conference:
Morgan Blanks, graduate student
Geoffrey Foster, graduate student
Erin Goodykoontz, teaching professor
Cody Hood, teaching assistant professor
Joshua Karr, teaching assistant professor
Lori Ogden, teaching associate professor
Vicki Sealey, associate professor
Sarah Snyder, program coordinator
Beyond the presenters, WVU was well represented by six undergraduate math majors specializing in mathematics education, marking their first academic conference experience. Students had an opportunity to engage with educators and experts in the field, providing them with important professional exposure and networking opportunities.
The following undergraduate students attended under the guidance of Renee LaRue, teaching associate professor:
Katelyn Kean
Ryan Lin
Presley Lucas
Campbell Noland
Bethany Rosiek
Gretchan Utzman
“It was an incredibly valuable and eye-opening experience. I learned so much that I could never have learned from a traditional education class or as a student,” said Lin, a junior mathematics major. “Seeing so many educators openly exchange insights and resources created a strong sense of community, which made the experience even more meaningful and encouraging.”
Participation in WVCTM underscores the University’s commitment to fostering excellence in mathematics education in the state.
For undergraduate students, it offers an invaluable introduction to the professional community they will soon join.
“Everyone was so supportive of my plans to become a math teacher and teach in West Virginia, which was refreshing and inspiring,” said Presley Lucas, a sophomore mathematics major.
For faculty and graduate students, it provides a platform to share their research and pedagogical insights.
“I first attended the WVCTM conference in 2012 and have attempted to go back every year since,” said Karr. “This conference presents the opportunity to display my work, but most importantly is a necessary space for the West Virginia math community to show its resiliency and the lengths that we go to for students of the state. I’m reminded every year by networking with college faculty, practicing K-12 educators, and former students who are now teaching that we all struggle with similar issues — and that there is immense power in the community.”
As the field of mathematics education continues to evolve, the School of Mathematical and Data Sciences remains dedicated to supporting future educators, enhancing teaching practices and strengthening the state’s mathematics education network.
Events like WVCTM play a crucial role in that mission, ensuring that West Virginia’s math educators stay connected, inspired and equipped with innovative strategies to support student success.