UofL's Elementary Mathematics Specialist program is designed to enhance teachers knowledge and skills in teaching mathematics, as well as prepare them as leaders to support mathematics instruction in schools and districts. Gain knowledge in teaching mathematics developmentally, effective mathematics teaching practices, supporting students’ mathematical fluency, and effective mathematics coaching. This 15-hour endorsement is an excellent fit for someone wanting to become better at teaching mathematics or someone seeking to become a leader in their school or district. The Elementary Mathematics Specialist program may be completed as part of the Ed.S. in Curriculum and Instruction; the M.Ed. in Teaching and Learning, a Rank I program, or as a stand-alone endorsement. The program leads to a Kentucky Elementary Mathematics Specialist Endorsement.
Teachers who have completed this program have had statistically significant improvements in mathematics achievement in their classrooms. UofL's Elementary Mathematics Specialist program has these defining features:
Job opportunities include:
Note: We admit students on a rolling basis. We review applications as they become complete, and admit students for a specific term up to the day classes start. We recommend you work on and submit your complete application well in advance of the preferred deadline, as obtaining transcripts and other materials may take more time.
To be admitted you must hold a valid teaching certificate. To receive the Kentucky endorsement, you must have Kentucky K-5 certification.
There are three program options for pursuing the Elementary Mathematics Specialist. Each one has slightly different application steps (click on the links to access the content):
Out-of-State Applicants
Certified teachers outside Kentucky should be advised that we cannot guarantee the program will meet licensure, salary, advancement or other requirements in their state. As part of the admission process, we require a written statement confirming interest in the program for personal development and understanding that the program is designed to meet Kentucky certification requirements only. For more information, please contact betty.hampton@louisville.edu.
The UofL Elementary Mathematics Specialist program includes four courses focused on effective teaching of mathematical practices and content, and one course or experience in coaching (cognitive coaching or mathematics coaching).
EDAP 546: Mathematical Reasoning in K-12
This course examines mathematical processes and practices that define mathematical proficiency and explores instructional practices to ensure students develop mathematical competence and confidence.
EDAP 646: Teaching Number and Algebraic Thinking in Elementary School
This course explores teaching and learning mathematics concepts and procedures throughout elementary school, such as subitizing, decomposing, basic fact fluency, place value, operations with multi-digit whole numbers, and algebraic thinking. Content reflects state and national standards.
EDAP 647: Teaching Data, Geometry and Measurement in Elementary School
This course explores effective teaching and learning of data, geometry and measurement concepts reflected in state and national standards. Emphasis is on a developmentally-appropriate, culturally-responsive approach to mathematics learning, teaching, and assessment.
EDAP 648: Teaching Fractions in K-5
This course enhances both mathematical understanding and teaching practices as they relate to fractions, decimals, and percents. In addition to a strong focus on conceptual understanding and procedural fluency, the course focuses on developing positive mathematical identities.
EDAP 640: Cognitive Coaching
Addresses the advanced knowledge, skills, and dispositions needed for teachers involved in coaching and/or mentoring relationships. The focus will be on using Cognitive Coaching to support reflective, self-directed teachers.
OR
EDAP 604: Math Coaching
This course engages teachers in using mathematics coaching to improve teaching, learning, and student achievement in mathematics. The course is organized around an instructional framework grounded in standards-based learning outcomes for students and research-based effective teaching practices.
Dr. Jennifer Bay-Williams
Program Coordinator
Professor/Mathematics Educator
j.baywilliams@louisville.edu
Dr. Kate Marin
katherine.marin@louisville.edu
Assistant Professor/Mathematics Educator
Samantha Morris
samantha.morris.1@louisville.edu
Instructor/Elementary Mathematics Specialist
Betty Hampton
betty.hampton@louisville.edu
Advisor, Graduate Ed Programs
Director, Graduate Student Services