AAMU Faculty and Preservice Teachers Elevate University’s National Profile

The Alabama A&M University Department of Teacher Education and Leadership completed a highly successful and influential week at two of the nation’s premier mathematics education gatherings, the 2025 National Council of Teachers of Mathematics (NCTM) Conference and the National Council of Supervisors of Mathematics (NCSM) Leadership in Mathematics Education Conference, held October 12–18 in Atlanta. AAMU’s delegation included five secondary mathematics majors from the AAMUteach program and four faculty members, marking a significant moment in the University’s growing impact on mathematics teacher preparation.

AAMU was among a small group of universities that ensured its preservice teachers had full access to these national professional learning experiences. Students Drevian Johnson, Calana Hurt, Taliah Traylor, Lakendra Jordan and Nalani Keith engaged directly with new research, classroom innovations and national mathematics leaders. Candy McGuire, a clinical instructor and doctoral student in the Department of Teacher Education and Learning, served as chaperone and mentor. Her guidance enriched the students’ experience and connected their conference participation to broader professional and academic goals.

AAMU faculty were featured prominently across both conferences. Dr. Johanna Massey, chair of the Department of Teacher Education and Leadership, presented her research poster titled “Number Talks Efficacy of Novice Teachers: From Preservice to Inservice,” which highlighted the department’s work on strengthening early-career mathematics instruction. Her presentation offered national visibility into AAMU’s research contributions.

Dr. Peter Eley, professor and special assistant to the provost, delivered a well-attended invited session at the National Council of Teachers of Mathematics Conference titled “A.I. Sucked Until it Didn’t: Defining a Framework for the Use of A.I. in the Math Classroom.” More than 200 educators attended the session, which explored emerging approaches to artificial intelligence and its role in instructional practice.

Dr. Brea Ratliff, assistant professor of mathematics education, expanded her national leadership through multiple high-level appointments. She was selected to serve on the National Council of Teachers of Mathematics Program Committee for both the 2025 and 2026 conferences and was appointed to the organization’s Research Committee. Her contributions extended to the NCSM Leadership in Mathematics Education Conference, where she continued her service as a board member and delivered an invited major presentation titled “Inclusive Leadership in Mathematics: “Practical Approaches to Building Trust, Equity, and Honesty in Learning Spaces.”

Her session provided strategies for cultivating learning environments where educators are empowered, respected and supported in advancing equitable mathematics instruction.

While AAMU has not historically attended these national conferences annually, the University’s growing visibility suggests an emerging tradition. Ratliff has already been invited to speak at the NCTM spring conference in New Orleans in March 2026, where AAMU students are expected to participate as well.

(Photo L-R) Candy McGuire, Taliah Traylor, Drevian Johnson, Dr. Peter Eley, Nalani Keith, Calana Hurt