Finding Joy is back - this time in the world of mathematics! For many students, math is the first subject where they begin to believe they are “not smart.” This course explores how teachers can change that story. Participants will examine key topics including math anxiety, the language of math, developing conceptual understanding and building computational fluency, addressing common student misconceptions, and integrating inquiry-based learning with purpose. By engaging in personal reflection, meaningful discussions, and authentic choice-based assignments, participants will ignite the joy of mathematics for their students and themselves!

Upon completion of this course, the student will be able to:

• Analyze how teacher and student beliefs and experiences influence attitudes toward mathematics and develop strategies that build confidence and joy in learning math.
• Apply strategies that strengthen communication and comprehension by helping students understand mathematics as a language with its own vocabulary, symbols, and structure.
• Balance conceptual understanding and procedural fluency in lesson design.
• Interpret and unpack Colorado math standards to support coherent learning progressions.
• Identify common mathematical misconceptions and design strategies to address them.
• Evaluate the roles of inquiry-based learning and direct instruction.
• Develop an action plan to strengthen students’ mathematical thinking, confidence, and problem-solving skills.