Discuss the benefits and challenges of creating mathematics professional development that brings together educators with different roles to build knowledge, practices, and collaboration for teaching students with diverse needs.
In order to broaden the participation of underrepresented student groups, such as students with disabilities and English Language Learners (ELL), mathematics professional development (PD) programs need to include educators with different areas of expertise, not just mathematics teachers. This session will focus on the benefits and challenges of creating effective PD programs that bring together educators with different roles to build knowledge, practices, and collaboration for improving the mathematics learning of all students. The three panelists will share approaches and challenges from two DR K-12 projects: Visual Access to Mathematics (VAM) and Differentiated Professional Development (DPD). The first works with mathematics teachers and ELL teachers; and the second with mathematics teachers/general educators and special educators. Throughout the session, participants will have opportunities to ask questions, share their experiences, and discuss common challenges. After discussing both projects, participants will join small group discussions on PD for mixed audiences and implications for PD design, implementation, and evaluation.