About me
My name is Kyle Ferreira van Leer (he/him/his) and I began my teaching career in the middle school math classroom. I taught 7th and 8th grade math for 8 years, working in Title I schools. For those 8 years, I worked primarily with migrant students from Central/South America (in Chelsea, MA) and Afghanistan (in Carmichael, CA). I firmly believe that all students are capable of high level mathematics engagement. While in the classroom, I implemented the instructional practices from Building Thinking Classrooms, spiraled my curriculum, and used portfolio based assessment models. I also implemented equitable practices, such as standards-based grading and daily opening circles.
Along with a recent move to Connecticut with my husband and son, I've transitioned into a coaching role as the K-12 Math Specialist in Coventry. I've enjoyed getting to expand beyond middle school and into the upper and lower grade levels. I am excited to help encourage teachers to embed equitable math practices into their classrooms, to ensure that all students are able to access mathematics and build their math identities. I am happy to chat with anyone about BTC, spiraling curriculum, and ABAR practices in the math classroom.