Placing mathematics specialists in elementary schools is a recent development that is gaining momentum as schools move to more rigorous standards, including the Common Core State Standards for Mathematics. Working with teachers to improve schoolwide mathematics performance, the mathematics specialist is unique among the specialists at elementary schools today. In this handbook: •Vignettes flesh out the elementary mathematics specialist's many responsibilities. •Experienced specialists offer tips on gaining teachers' trust--and access to their classrooms. •Special guidance highlights effective collaboration between the principal and the specialist. The transition from classroom teacher to elementary mathematics specialist is challenging, but the principal can smooth the specialist's path by reassuring teachers that the new specialist is there to support them, not judge them. In the authors' words, "The mathematics specialist, when introduced to the faculty in the right way, becomes a soft place where the teacher can fall."

The role of the elementary mathematics specialist -- Research findings -- Coaching individual teachers -- Supporting grade-level teams -- Supporting groups of teachers across grades -- Working with resource teachers -- Supporting teachers' work with Special education students -- Supporting teachers' work with English language learners and gifted mathematics learners -- Using assessment to inform instruction on the basis of data -- Managing a school's instructional resources for mathematics -- Serving as the face of an elementary school's mathematics program -- Turning challenges into opportunities -- Defining the elementary mathematics specialist position -- Leadership expectations and negotiating with the principal -- Induction to a new position involves transitions -- Personal and professional growth and development -- The principal and the elementary mathematics specialist work together -- Who are mathematics specialists? -- The Virginai mathematics specialist program.