Richard Bisk provides professional development for teachers to deepen their understanding of the mathematics they teach. He emphasizes helping teachers understand the logical structure and reasoning behind mathematics concepts. For elementary teachers, he focuses on number and operations since this provides the foundation for higher mathematics. Developing strong number sense in teachers helps them move away from rote memorization and foster understanding in students. Bisk has 16 years experience consulting with schools using Singapore-style textbooks, but his approach is effective for all teachers regardless of curriculum.

1. Mathematics Professional Development for Teachers
Richard Bisk PhD
rbisk@verizon.net
978-877-0640
My work with teachers focuses on deepening their understanding of the math they teach.
Mathematics has a structure that is logical. Everything has a reason. Understanding math well is
the key to being able to teach it well. At the K-8 level, I first emphasize the number and
operations strand since provide the basis for most of higher level mathematics. Many elementary
teachers have not had the opportunity to study this strand in depth and this limits their
effectiveness; particularly their ability to meet diverse student needs and appropriately
differentiate instruction
The careful development of number concepts helps teachers, and their students approach, math
with an emphasis on understanding rather than rote memorization. This approach fosters habits
that are essential for success in the study of more advanced mathematics.
For 16 years, I have consulted with many schools that use math textbooks based on the
Singapore approach. However, my approach to PD is effective for all teachers regardless of the
books being used.
 Boston Globe Article highlighting my PD work - http://tinyurl.com/gocwnwg
 My Boston Globe Op Ed Piece on Elementary Teacher Preparation -
http://tinyurl.com/Bisk-Globe-OpEd
 Partial List of PD Locations - http://tinyurl.com/kmsqexx
 Testimonials from Teachers and School Leaders - http://tinyurl.com/hulwku5
Background:
 PhD in Mathematics
 Professor of Mathematics at Fitchburg and Worcester State Universities – 33 years.
Department Chair at both institutions,
 Professional Development work with K-12 teachers throughout the US and around the
world.
 Consulting Author – Math in Focus K-8 Textbooks. (Adaption of Singapore series.)
 Regular Presenter at NCTM conferences.
 Contributor to Massachusetts “Guidelines for the Mathematical Preparation of
Elementary Teachers,”
 Member Massachusetts Department of Elementary and Secondary Education Advisory
Panels.
My Websites
 http://www.worcester.edu/Richard-Bisk/
 https://sites.google.com/site/singmathproject/