Empowering Every Educator
The Conference for the Advancement of Mathematics Teaching (CAMT) ended this weekend, and this blog post aims to capture the essence of the event. For seventy-two years, we have been a non-profit organization committed to enhancing mathematics education. Each year, we are continually inspired by the number of educators who journey from far and wide to participate in this gathering. Our strong brand reflects the dedication of individuals who generously share their time and expertise with one another.
In today’s political climate, there are numerous attempts to silence the voices of mathematics and other subject areas. Schools are grappling with declining funding on a national level; educators are once again being asked to achieve more with fewer resources and limited personnel support on campus. However, instead of discouragement, we experienced an atmosphere filled with hope and determination. Our policy leaders from the Texas Education Agency provided us with tools and insights to implement current policies and state standards, and the State Board of Education engaged with us, authentically listening to the needs of mathematics teachers and leaders, seeking our counsel as Texas educators while they consider revisions and refreshes of our state standards.
A Few Session Highlights
From the opening session to the final moments of the third day, we witnessed remarkable engagement. Speakers led sessions that encouraged educators to stand, converse, and actively process the content being presented. Attendees interacted with high-level material rather than passively absorbing information while seated; these impactful instructional strategies will seamlessly transfer into classrooms when students return in August.
CAMT is more than just a Texas conference. We bring experts from many states and nations that our Texas teachers deserve to learn from. Adrian Mendoza, originally from Mexico, frequently speaks at CAMT, and his sessions this year inspired teachers to use gestures to assist English language learners in connecting with academic content.
Peter Liljedahl, a global leader from Canada and author of Building Thinking Classrooms, facilitated two extended sessions that prompted teachers to reflect deeply on tasks designed to enhance students’ mathematical understanding. His approach to teaching mathematics has transformed the collaborative efforts of teachers and students alike, fostering agency in mathematical content. One educator experienced a medical episode just before his session began; she expressed that she couldn’t miss it because Dr. Liljedahl is her math hero. We wholeheartedly agree. He selflessly travels the world to educate teachers how to empower students to think critically and respond dynamically.
Raj Shah led an opening session focused on student and teacher brilliance; encouraging educators to seek the best in their students and other teachers they work with at the campus level. His presentation didn’t follow the flow of a typical “inspirational speaker,”; rather, he led with a quiet, introspective style that enabled educators to process and reflect on their own leadership in the classroom. This session was a beautiful segue into the film screenings of Counted Out on Saturday. This engaging film showed educators the power of the math they teach. Solid learning in mathematics opens doors for our students’ future, regardless of the college or career pathway they choose.
Celebrating Attendees
While we’ve only highlighted three examples of sessions from this year, numerous presenters captivated full rooms right up until the final session on Saturday. Educators attending this event dedicated their time away from their families while off contract, consistently demonstrating their commitment to supporting students. Many attending #CAMT25 paid for the conference out of their own pockets. Talk about commitment and dedication!
The true stars of the event were the attendees themselves. Before the conference, we encouraged participants to share a personal photo of themselves engaging in an activity that empowers them. This initiative was thoughtfully designed by CAMT leadership. In a world that can often feel divisive and chaotic, we have the choice to recognize individuals for who they are, what they cherish, and the unique contributions they make to classrooms nationwide. Our goal is to unify educators and create opportunities for them to discuss mathematics in safe, open learning environments.
The photo booths provided a fantastic opportunity for attendees to network and enjoy themselves with fellow participants and colleagues. While these photo stations didn’t directly facilitate learning, they offered memorable keepsakes from the event and important brief mental breaks from educational sessions. Our attendees had wonderful chances to learn collaboratively while having fun, which we hope will extend back into their classrooms.
What’s Next?
We are grateful for the contributions of state and national leaders who attended #CAMT25. Together, we take pride in the work being done nationwide to influence policy and produce resources that help advance mathematics education, ensuring that we do not lose sight of inclusivity for all learners. We encourage each organization to continue creating events that deliver the best, most captivating content and speakers, firmly supporting educators in their vital roles.
The three days of shared learning mark the beginning of a new school year, where educators will wholeheartedly dedicate themselves to leading in the classroom. They will shield their students from negative or limiting self-talk regarding their mathematical abilities, fostering encouragement, hope, and challenging students to discover their unique voices and mathematical talents. Teachers will, as we always do, come together to support one another in challenging times. It has been our joy to collaborate with all of you this summer, and we eagerly anticipate the incredible things you will accomplish this year. Together, we rise.
Paula Steffen Moeller, Ed.D.
CAMT CEO
