Q&A: Davidson honored for her work in teaching math

Amy Davidson, third-grade teacher at Fredstrom Elementary School, 5700 NW 10^th St., has been named a state finalist for Presidential Awards for Excellence in Elementary Mathematics Teaching. The award honors the state’s best math teachers at the elementary level.

Davidson is one of three teachers to be honored at the state level. One teacher will be chosen by a national committee to represent Nebraska at a national event. Davidson will be honored at an event on Sept. 24 in Lincoln.

We asked Amy a few questions about her teaching strategy:

1 - How long have you been a teacher, and at what schools?

Taught since 1998 at Fredstrom Elementary School.

2 - How would you characterize your teaching style?

Enthusiastic, consistent, structured.

3 - Being an elementary teacher, you obviously teach a variety of curriculum, but this honor is specifically for math. Do you consider this your specialty, and do you incorporate more math into classroom activities?

I still teach all subjects but have a passion for math. My minutes are set by the district, but I squeeze as much math into the day as possible.

4 - What strategies have tried specifically regarding math curriculum, and how do you realize your strategies are working?

I firmly believe in conceptual teaching and learning. Students who develop their own strategies can commit the strategy to memory. The math will have more meaning when they have time to make the connections. Students are actively engaged when they develop their own methods. They take ownership in their work!

---

Published: July 9, 2012
Updated: August 31, 2012