A group of College of Western Idaho (CWI) students recently had a special learning opportunity thanks to a guest presentation from three Boise School District (BSD) educators. On Thursday, Nov. 17, Dr. Teri Theamert, Mathematics Supervisor for the BSD, and Sharon Tennent and Suzanne Wolfkiel, Math Coaches with the BSD, spoke with about 30 students regarding the teaching of mathematics in the elementary classroom. Key topics were the implementation of the Common Core, changes in the methods used to teach – especially modeling and using manipulatives, training of teachers, and student success.
The CWI students are approximately 1-2 years away from student teaching and having their own classrooms. Many of the students said they felt more reassured about the training they will receive and about the methods being used in the elementary classrooms.