Problem Solver

Problem Solver

By Callie Collins

Norman High School math teacher Julie Klingensmith approaches her job with an open mind.

Contrary to conventional beliefs, there is more than one way to solve equations and understand complex operations, said Klingensmith, who was recently honored with the Presidential Award for Excellence in Mathematics and Science Teaching.

The award is considered the highest national recognition a teacher can receive. Klingensmith was selected for the recognition in 2017, and she went to Washington in October for the award ceremony.

Now in her 18th year in the classroom, Klingensmith has spent 16 of those years teaching advanced math, including calculus and a two-year honors math course.

“When I first started teaching, I didn’t know how to make it creative but through summer workshops, professional developments and getting to know other ways beyond a textbook, you connect with other people and see how to make it different,” said Klingensmith.

“I mean, we might study in a textbook and figure out how to complete 20 problems, but then there should be a matching game and two days of activities. Instead of another worksheet, how can we make it into a game?” she said.

“In about 8th grade, I was in an advanced math class, but then I got mono and missed a month of school. It was so difficult to jump back in and understand what was happening after all that time away. My Dad helped me at the kitchen table, and I cried every night. I made a B, but I didn’t understand the concepts, really. My parents were super supportive, and they suggested I just take it again in ninth grade. Hearing the same concepts but from a different voice made all the difference. Suddenly, I could help the kids next to me,” she said.

Klingensmith started as an architecture major at OU but changed to math education. She graduated with her bachelor’s in 2002 and completed her master’s in 2010.

“Working with students makes every day interesting. The kids bring something different every day,” she said.

Klingensmith credits supportive mentors, administrators and peers with fostering a positive environment.

“As teachers, we grow and learn and get better and so do our students. It’s really nice that that’s the energy at our school,” she said.

One of the issues that Klingensmith identified as problematic is the myth that you’re either good at math or you’re not.

“The worst is when a parent says, ‘I’m not good at math, so it’s okay my kid isn’t,’ which gives that student permission not to try.”

During her trip to Washington, Klingensmith toured the White House, had dinner at the Kennedy Center, attended an awards ceremony at the Department of the Interior, met former winners, including those who now work for the Department of Education. She also attended professional development sessions. The award included a $10,000 cash prize.

“The reason I got to go there and do all these amazing things is because of all the people who mentored and supported me and collaborated with me and made me feel comfortable. The award would not have been possible without the people who have helped me along the way. That’s why I know it’s not just mine. It belongs to my mentors and my peers and my students,” Klingensmith said. – BSM Norman High Math Teacher Wins National Recognition