Mrs. Bergener Presents at NCEA 2023

At the annual National Catholic Educational Association (NCEA) Conference, Mrs. Andrea Bergener, math specialist, led two presentations for a nationwide audience of Catholic administrators, educators, clergy, and supporters. Mrs. Bergener presented "The In's and Out's of Dyslexia: Instructional Adaptations" alongside Notre Dame University's Program for Inclusive Education (PIE) classmates as well as "Math Intervention for Exceptional Learners." The 2022-2023 school year marks Mrs. Bergener's 19th year in education, 7th year in Catholic education, and 6th year at Prince of Peace.

Mrs. Bergener previews her presentation, "Math Intervention for Exceptional Learners" and shares to what she's looking forward at NCEA 2023:

What is the overall message of your presentation? I am hoping to provide teachers with useful strategies they can turn around and implement with their students of any age to support their math learning for the remainder of the school year and the years to come."

What is an important takeaway or application? The learning of math should engage the senses. Students should be working with objects, using and creating visuals, and articulating their thinking orally and in writing. This is particularly important for students.

How does the home-school partnerships play a role in math intervention? Many of the strategies students are learning in math are different that those than current teachers and parents were taught as children. Informing parents will help them when supporting students at home. For myself, many of these strategics make more sense to me!

What is one of the greatest indicators to teachers that a student may need individualized instruction? They may act out because they are frustrated they do not understand, or they may do the opposite and withdraw and not participate. Observing and interview students early on can help teachers pinpoint misconceptions or misunderstandings.

What do you think is math teachers' greatest challenge and "step one" solution? Students not retaining information. They need frequent, spiral practice to keep their skills sharp.

What unique role does math intervention play in Catholic education? Math understanding and problem-solving are critical to career and practical life. Practicing the mental habits of precise, determined, careful, and accurate questioning, inquiry, and reasoning benefits a person in all walks of life, including spirituality.

Have any professional organizations supported your growth in your field? The PIE program at Notre Dame was instrumental in helping me understand the unique challenges and learn beneficial strategies for students. I am also an Educator in Residence through the PROGRESS Center to learn and connect with educators around the country that educate students with learning differences.