How an Award-winning Teacher Builds Student Ownership in Math

Actively engaging students in leading their own learning can be a significant challenge in any classroom, and middle school math classrooms are no exception. Award-winning teacher Jaime Garcia, dean of academics at LISA Academy North Middle-High School in North Little Rock, Ark., developed a math mentorship model where high school students mentor middle school students in math. The results are promising, as highlighted by EdWeek when he received the Milken Educator Award.

One of the keys to improving instruction is helping teachers shift their practices to create greater student engagement and ownership of learning. LISA Academy’s Jaime Garcia builds student ownership through an innovative math mentorship model where high school senior students mentor their middle school peers. This reinforces their own learning and strengthens confidence, collaboration, and a sense of belonging. Most importantly, it supports stronger math outcomes.

NIET CEO Dr. Joshua Barnett and Arkansas Department of Education Secretary Jacob Oliva presented the award to Dean of Academics Jaime Garcia of LISA Academy North Middle-High School in Arkansas.

“We are proud to recognize extraordinary educators like Jaime Garcia, whose dedication to this school and student body sets a national standard for excellence,” said Dr. Barnett. “We celebrate Jaime today, not only for his outstanding leadership, but also for his deep passion to help every student at LISA Academy North Middle-High School thrive.”

Already the largest provider of training for teacher leaders in the state, NIET is also providing training and support to districts working to improve observation and feedback for teachers and leaders. Through these efforts, along with district partnerships across Arkansas, teachers are receiving detailed, timely, individualized support for improving instructional skills and increasing student engagement in learning. Mr. Garcia takes a commitment to student ownership to the next level through his innovative math mentorship program.