Rickard also reported that how teachers shape curriculum to meet the needs of their
students is informed by their own understanding of mathematics content, problem
solving, classroom discourse, and other factors (Rickard, 2005, p.3). My involvement in
the intense professional development encompassed in a master’s program to benefit
middle level mathematics educators (Math in the Middle) surely improved my teaching
and learning as well as student learning. My role as a teacher was important and
students needed the structure and guidance I provided as noted below by Glenda
Lappan, past president of the NCTM in her President’s Message