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[Budget Inquiry] proposed removal of Math Coach position for
Bacon Academy from 2020-2021 BOE Budget
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Inbo
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Apr 23, 2020, 8:38
AM (5 days ago)
Laurie Lindsey
laurlind@sbcglobal.net via
colchesterct.org
First please know that I understand these are difficult times on many fronts for our
residents and there is a need to minimize any new financial strains on our neighbors.
However, I have to express my concern that in the request to reduce the 2020-2021
BOE budget, the Math Coach for Bacon Academy is being considered for removal.
Whether you know this or not, we in the Bacon Academy Math Department have been
requesting this position for several years. We know there is a need to do more to meet
the needs of our students and we also know we need to use effective teaching
techniques and materials. It takes time to research materials and teaching strategies to
use. Just because we've read a book or find a technique on a web site doesn't mean
that we are guaranteed success.
For a few months earlier this year we had a Math Coach from LEARN work individually
with each of us on specific issues in our classes. Having an experienced math teacher
who has also researched materials, strategies and learning issues watch our classes,
analyze our student behavior and our teacher behavior and then recommend strategies
and materials to use was life changing for me at least. In one of my classes I have
students who tested at the elementary level with their math skills. Imagine what it is like
to try to learn when you are missing four years of background information. Our coach
was helping me build a growth mindset in my students so that they could have
confidence that their current math abilities were enough to be successful. In just a few
weeks I saw my least confident students thinking more often on their own and sharing
their thoughts.
Sure that doesn't sound like I'm teaching math but we all know teaching is so much
more than the content. It's about helping students grow into contributing members of
society who can take on new problems and challenges and be successful in dealing
with those.
I know you have confidence in our teaching abilities but we would be feel your support
even more if you were to support a math coach.
Finally, I can't thank you enough for your service to our town.
Laurie Lindsey
24 Hi Lea Farm Rd. Colchester
Bacon Academy Math Teacher