HIGH SCHOOL
THE HEART OF HIGH SCHOOL MATH
M
By Heather Bennett, Communications
Math at LRCA is not just about numbers and equations. It’s about the whole child and finding ways to tailor lessons to all learning styles and levels while building foundational skills for future classes and life. “We have implemented the whole student approach toward assessments and course recommendations, incorporating more balance for students to demonstrate mastery of content,” says Ciara Gulley, Math Department Co-Leader. “Every member of the math department takes seriously the responsibility of guiding each student to take courses that match their level of ability and long term goals while challenging them and maintaining balance in their overall high school experience,” assures Heather Tarpley, Math Department Co-Leader. Roughly every five years, math curricula are closely evaluated, as well as benchmarks and standards. The cloud of COVID has added an extra layer of complexity to this year’s efforts, but the faculty has met the challenge head on. They are working to ensure students are learning essential math concepts at every age and stage. Working with a Houston based consultant, the math team has engaged in individual and group professional development via Zoom. Tarpley says, 10 THE WARRIOR • WINTER 2021
“We looked at everything that had been part of the curriculum in the past, evaluating whether or not it was essential, whether we needed to change the order in which concepts were taught, or whether something was missing that needed to be incorporated into the curriculum. We delved into presenting concepts in a way that would connect students to previously learned material, and also in a context that was interesting and relevant to the students’ lives.” Technology has played a key role in COVID-era instruction. A variety of methods are used to actively check students’ understanding including the flipped classroom where students prepare for learning by watching videos at home. “Everyone present, either physically or virtually, can engage with the instruction,” Tarpley says. Gulley explains, “We are teaching without walls and using a variety of platforms for asynchronous and synchronous instruction. We have students in the classroom and at home that we teach simultaneously. I love seeing their “Aha” moments. I’m so proud of my kiddos!” MEET THE MATH DEPARTMENT CO-LEADERS Ciara Gulley came to LRCA three years ago and has worked in education for eight years. Her passion for tutoring and mentoring sparked when she was in college at UCA. While seeking her Master of Arts in Teaching
