Lack of Teacher Preparation Drives Down Math Performance in the U.S.
Following the decline in math and reading scores in the United States, experts have pointed out that teachers are not sufficiently prepared to teach mathematics.
Latrenda Knighten, President of the National Council of Teachers of Mathematics, stated that the lack of certified math teachers in classrooms and inadequate training in conceptual math instruction have played a significant role in this failure. She noted that the decrease in ongoing professional development opportunities—especially at the primary school level—has made it more difficult for teachers to effectively convey basic math skills to students.
Knighten emphasized that learning math is not just about memorizing formulas; the true goal is to help students develop the ability to break down, analyze, and interpret numbers. She also stressed that digital tools should not replace teacher interaction, but rather be used as supportive resources.
Despite the growing presence of technology in education, Knighten underlined that the student-teacher relationship remains critically important in the learning process. “Unless conceptual training and guidance are provided to teachers, achievement gaps will not close,” she said.
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