Author: Traci Hedetniemi

Traci Hedetniemi is an accomplished middle and high school mathematics teacher with over two decades of experience in education. She holds a Bachelor’s degree in Mathematics and a Master’s in Education from Clemson University. Traci has been recognized as a Teacher of the Year at both the school and district levels and is a Nearpod Certified Educator. Currently, she serves as a High School Math Interventionist at SC Connections Academy, where she is dedicated to implementing innovative math intervention programs and supporting student success.

Magnifying Metacognition: Reclaiming the “Messy Middle” in Math Instruction

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In today’s fast-paced age of technology, students often prioritize finding immediate answers rather than focusing on thinking to grow their understanding. With ever-growing access to AI, students can turn to chatbots as personal assistants who can even give them the “work” their teacher requested to support their answers. But math teachers will tell you that … read more »

Making Math Meaningful: Reimagining “Real World” Problems in Math

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The question, “When will I ever use this?” is common in middle and high school math classrooms. While students sometimes throw this question out when they want to dig in their heels and avoid work, it’s a valid concern that teachers need to address. Adolescent motivation wanes when the intent and purpose of learning don’t … read more »

Top Tips for Reimagining Virtual Learning Days 

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Whether planned or unexpected, virtual learning days often fill teachers with anxiety or dread. At the same time, students may discount virtual learning and not view it as a “real” school day. But if we can think of virtual days as opportunities, they have tremendous potential to offer powerful learning experiences for students. The key … read more »

Building Engagement in Virtual Learning Environments, Part 3: Leveling Up Asynchronous Learning Activities

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In parts one and two of this series, we discussed how to build strong relationships in virtual learning environments and how to optimize live instructional time for maximum student engagement. Now it’s time to turn our attention to where virtual learners spend the majority of their time: asynchronous learning activities. The challenge and opportunity for … read more »

Building Engagement in Virtual Learning Environments, Part 2: Leveraging Live Instructional Time

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When the majority of virtual students’ school day is spent on asynchronous learning, it is critical to capitalize on live instructional time as a place to push active engagement. During synchronous sessions, the aim should be to move students from simply participating in tasks towards investing in learning by asking questions, responding to feedback, and … read more »