Making Math Moments That Matter “Thanks, But No Thanks”: Coaching Math Teachers Who Don’t Want Help
What do you do when a teacher says, “I’m good—I don’t need help”?
This real-life math coaching dilemma came straight from a listener. And if you’re a math coach or instructional leader, chances are you’ve been there too. Whether it's past initiative fatigue, fear of judgment, or a perceived mismatch between PD and practice—resistance is rarely about apathy. It’s about experience, belief, and trust.
Listeners Will Learn:
- What might really be behind math teacher resistance (hint: it’s not laziness)
- How to shift from a “fixer” to a thinking partner
- The dangers of perceived hierarchy in math coaching relationships
- Why clarity of why is more important than the what in PD
- The four phases of the Adoption Model—and why most systems skip critical steps
- Strategies for making change feel safe, meaningful, and sustainable
- Why celebrating what’s working is the best place to start
- What leadership can do to build long-term buy-in
If you’re trying to support a math teacher who doesn’t see the value in coaching or PD, this episode offers clear, relationship-based strategies rooted in trust, agency, and the slow work of sustainable change.
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Math coordinators and leaders – Ready to design your math improvement plan with guidance, support and using structure? Learn how to follow our 4 stage process. https://growyourmathprogram.com
Looking to supplement your curriculum with problem-based lessons and units? Make Math Moments Problem Based Lessons & Units
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Are you wondering how to create K-12 math lesson plans that leave students so engaged they don’t want to stop exploring your math curriculum when the bell rings? In their podcast, Kyle Pearce and Jon Orr—founders of MakeMathMoments.com—share over 19 years of experience inspiring K-12 math students, teachers, and district leaders with effective math activities, engaging resources, and innovative math leadership strategies. Through a 6-step framework, they guide K-12 classroom teachers and district math coordinators on building a strong, balanced math program that grows student and teacher impact. Each week, gain fresh ideas, feedback, and practical strategies to feel more confident and motivate students to see the beauty in math. Start making math moments today by listening to Episode #139: "Making Math Moments From Day 1 to 180.