
(Dr. Fonger, Professor Fonger, Dr. Nicky, Mom, Nic, Nicky)
Hi. I’m Nicole.
I link research and practice to support students’ meaningful learning of algebra in urban public schools.
Based in Syracuse since 2017, I am a dedicated parent, community member, artist, writer, and math education professor.
Nicole L. Fonger
Highlights

My latest work
Equitable Communication to Link Research & Practice
I network metaphors for linking research and practice with an equity lens to examine effective communication for linking research and practice. #AERA21 View the PDF of the presentation or paper.
Exploring the Intersection of Antiracism & Algebra
How is the gatekeeper role of algebra intertwined with racism? I’m building an Antiracist Algebra Coalition a team of folks dedicated to racial justice in Syracuse, NY. Join us! View a PDF of the project aims here.
A Learning Trajectory for Quadratic Function
Together with Dr. Amy Ellis and Dr. Fatih Dogan, we developed a learning trajectory for quadratic function. Read the article here.
Math Ed Sketchnotes & Zines
I sketch my own ideas and the ideas of others. I focus on sketching about learning and teaching algebra in mathematics education to link research and practice. I also create #zines like this one on equity and redlining.
A Heart Centered Lens
This study suggests the possibility of using creative artistic expression to support the transformation of educators’ perspectives… Read the article
Culturally Responsive Education
I draw on the perspectives of thought leaders to explore What is reality pedagogy (Christopher Emdin)?What is an equity lens in mathematics education (Rochelle Gutierrez)? Read More.

Linking Research & Practice
Theory and practice go hand in hand. I’m on a quest to engage in critical conversations to strengthen these connections, and take action toward a shared vision for improved mathematics education for all students.

Teaching and Mentoring
Culturally Responsive Education
Center student voice through cultural competence, build caring teacher-student relationships as a grounding for academic achievement, and cultivate critical consciousness to transform educational opportunities.
Teaching Statement
As a teacher my goal is to support students’ rich opportunities to learn meaningful mathematics. I ground my practice in research and theory on learning, teaching, and equity in mathematics education.
Mentoring: Job Search
Choosing a career in academia can be a rewarding journey.
I’ve spent a lot of time on the job market. I’ve captured some processes, products, and guiding questions that I’ve found productive to help me along the way.

Sketchnotes
Math Ed Sketchnotes
I utilize sketchnotes to share theories and practices relevant to the field mathematics education and culturally responsive education.
What, Why, How
Sketchnoting is a relaxing practice that aims to capture ideas in images and text in an engaging way
Learn to Sketchnote
Sketchnotes combine image and text as a unique visual synthesis. No pre-requisite experience is required.

Blog
Writings on life from the perspective of a heart centered yogi mama, mindful educator, writer, mother, curator of joy, healing artist. I also blog about connection, authenticity, expression.
- Cultivating math genius.How do you cultivate students’ math genius? Through intentional designs for learning that build skills from students’ identities, that grow intellect and criticality, and that spark joy.
- A Sense of Place.Teachers, students, education leaders, and researchers in Syracuse, NY came together at Cafe Sankofa on May 7, 2022 for “A Sense of Place” event.
- Evoking Emotion in a Math Lesson.This post features the images and prompt that high school math teachers used to engage students in evoking emotion in a math lesson on highway revitalization in Syracuse, NY.
- Vision Board.This vision board was created by Ken Keech, Betty Routhouska, and Nicole Fonger with support from the Antiracist Algebra Coalition and the Meaningful Math Research Group at Syracuse University students Waleed Raja, Khadija Sharif, Daslin Peña, Emmy Njue, Abigail Erskine and Mathematics Instructional Coach, Tracy Mosier of the Syracuse City School District Mathematics Department. ThisContinue reading “Vision Board.”
- The Antiracist Algebra Coalition.In this post I answer 5 key questions: 1. What was the initial process of forming the Antiracist Algebra Coalition like? 2. How did my ideas become reality? 3. Did you receive support from any of your colleagues or the university? 4. What sparked your interest in starting “The Antiracist Algebra Coalition”? 5. What areContinue reading “The Antiracist Algebra Coalition.”
- Are you white? (a Zine)Are you white? Are you interested in learning about race and racism? Check out this zine as a way to learn more.