Frequently Asked Questions - Math Specialist Leader (K-8)

How long does it take to complete the program?

The Math Specialist Leader (K-8) program is designed for working professionals. Most students complete the program in 3 years or less.

How do I apply to the program?

Applications are available online Students should apply and specifically indicate their interest in the Math Education Leadership (MEL) programs on their applications.

Do I need to apply and begin the program at a certain time to enter a cohort?

Students are permitted to begin the program during Summer, Fall or Spring.

When are courses offered?

Courses are offered in the evenings.

Are there classes offered in the summer?

There are some classes offered in the summer. As demand for the program increases, additional summer courses may be offered.

Where are the Math Specialist courses being offered?

Currently, the classes are being offered on the Fairfax campus of George Mason University. As demand for the program increases, additional courses may be offered off-site at school system locations. The first off-campus cohort began in Fairfax County Public Schools in Fall 2007

What courses are being offered during the 2009-2010 academic year?

The following courses in the program are tentative offerings:

EDCI 645 Curriculum Development in Mathematics Education (Fall 09)
MATH 600 Probability & Stats (Spring 10)
MATH 600 Algebra (Fall 09)
EDCI 666 Research in Mathematics Teaching (Spring 10)

Can I take courses before I apply to the program? How do I sign up for courses?

Students are permitted to take 2 classes before applying to the program. To take these classes, students should go online and apply to GMU as Non-Degree students and register for the courses they want to take in the program.

Can I transfer my Math Specialist coursework from other programs into my Masters Degree program at George Mason?

You may be able to transfer up to 12 credits into the GMU program from a Virginia partner institution. This transfer is dependent upon the approval of the Mathematics Education Leadership coordinator.

Do my mathematics content classes from GMU's ALPD program count towards the Math Specialist Program?

ALPD courses are not permitted to be counted as courses in GMU's degree granting programs. Certain ALPD classes may qualify for a special exception if they were offered between fall 2002 and spring 2005. Courses taken after spring 2005 do not qualify. Acceptance of these courses is dependent upon the approval of the Mathematics Education Leadership coordinator.

What if I already have my Masters Degree and just want to take the additional courses for the Math Specialist endorsement?

Students are required to apply to the MEL Math Specialist Program. After that, they only need to take the 5 mathematics courses (MATH 600: Number Systems & Number Theory, Geometry & Measurement, Probability & Statistics, Algebra & Functions, and Rational Numbers & Proportional Reasoning) and the 3 Math Education Leadership courses (EDCI 666, 645, 646) to qualify for the Math Specialist endorsement.

What is the level of mathematics in the MATH designated courses?

Students gain a deeper understanding of the mathematics content of the K-8 classroom and its connections to advanced mathematics. Math content exams are a required assessment in these courses.

How can I obtain a Math Specialist endorsement in Virginia?

The process for approval for a mathematics specialist endorsement has begun in Virginia. When this regulation receives final approval from the Virginia Board of Education, students will have the option of applying for state endorsement.

Who can I contact for more information?

Please contact Dr. Margret Hjalmarson, mhjalmar@gmu.edu, MEL Program Coordinator, 703-993-4818, as soon as you decide to apply to the program or if you have any questions about the program. She will want to gather contact information such as your name, address, e-mail, and phone number so that you can receive updates on MEL program information.