Inspiration – Nicole L. Fonger

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.

Being, Rain.

In a state of being, I notice. I breathe. I experience sensation in my body. I pause to listen to what I need.

Compassion, Curiosity for Monsters.

Compassion and curiosity toward self remain key in healing and releasing “monsters” of self-doubt, criticism.

Showing up is important. Not only showing up for other people, but showing up for yourself. Lately, I’ve been showing up for myself by sharing my ideas. By embracing the inevitable vulnerability of sharing something personal–your art– in a way that is open for public critique. Preparing for a presentation to an international audience ofContinue reading “Showing up.”

Learning to listen.

Learning to listen. To a calling, deep inside. Turning inward to notice. No longer hidden– A desire to connect. With higher purpose. Through expression. Through teaching. Through silence. Through sleep. My dreams bring visions of translations of Sanskrit verses Yet here I am–awakened to the sounds of babes Crying, whining, cajoling me back to awareness.Continue reading “Learning to listen.”

Honoring the now.

Honoring the here and now. Accepting what is. Accepting what isn’t. Noticing anticipation of what is to come. The could be. Noticing regret of what was. The should have. Come home to witness. Honoring the now. The sweetness of joy tastes sweeter. The depth of frustration grips tighter. The ebb and flow offer relief andContinue reading “Honoring the now.”

Rx. Breathe, nature, self-care.

Each of us has a story, has been stuck, has suffered affliction of one form or another. Our challenge then, remains an opportunity. See one another. Hold space for one another. Be. When you are in that place in you, and I am in that place in me, we are one.

Can you draw it? Sketchnotes 101

In my current projects on linking research and practice in mathematics education I am called to create illustrations and visual manifestations of ideas. I have also found this lens to be supportive in my teaching. In reading student papers, where ideas are still forming, I ask: Can you draw this idea? Create a sketch to illustrateContinue reading “Can you draw it? Sketchnotes 101”

Lead with your heart.

In practicing yoga, the cue to “lead with your heart” often is interpreted to mean shoulders back and down, abdomen in to support a strong core, arms perhaps stretched out like wings or clasped behind your back and down, with heart-center the leading force of your physical movement. (Think of doing a forward fold swanContinue reading “Lead with your heart.”