I can’t wait to present at MCTM’s Annual Math Conference this April in Minnesota. This opportunity is truly special because I’ll be diving into two of my passions—grit and Building Thinking Classrooms—to help educators create Gritty Thinking Classrooms that foster resilience, problem-solving, and perseverance in students.  

Math is not just about numbers and equations; it’s about persistence, self-efficacy, and growth mindset. So many students struggle with productive struggle, but when we intentionally build grit, they learn how to push through challenges rather than give up. By implementing Dr. India White’s G.R.I.T. framework, we help students:  

- Develop a growth mindset  

- Build resilience in problem-solving  

- Strengthen self-efficacy  

- Improve time management and perseverance  

Connecting Grit with Building Thinking Classrooms  

Peter Liljedahl’s Building Thinking Classrooms has transformed the way we engage students in math learning. When we merge BTC structures with grit, we create an environment where students:  

- Tackle challenging problems head-on  

- Collaborate with peers to build understanding  

- Learn to embrace struggle as part of growth  

- Develop confidence in their ability to succeed  

In my session, we’ll explore how BTC’s 14 elements align with grit and how teachers can create a culture of perseverance in their classrooms.  

If you’re attending MCTM’s Annual Math Conference, I’d love to connect. Let’s talk about how to empower students to think, struggle, and grow. Together, we can build Gritty Thinking Classrooms that transform how students learn and engage with mathematics.  

Let’s get gritty! See you soon in Minnesota!