Noelani Davis Galbreath, MAT

I have been teaching mathematics for more than 15 years in the District of Columbia Public Schools and abroad. Over the years, I’ve worked with middle and high school students, adult learners, and private school students across a wide range of learning needs, including advanced, special education, GED, IB, and AP classes. In 2021, I was honored to receive the Presidential Award for Excellence in Mathematics and Science Teaching (PAEMST) for Washington, D.C. Beyond the classroom, I enjoy designing engaging math experiences for both students and teachers. I authored a complete, open-source Algebra I curriculum through the BetterLesson Master Teacher Project and served as a curriculum writer for DCPS, developing end-of-unit cornerstone projects implemented districtwide. I’ve also had the privilege of mentoring and learning alongside fellow educators as a department chair, District Course Chair, and Master Teacher with Math for America DC, where I led professional learning across the city. I also contributed to two teacher advisory councils with the Office of the State Superintendent of Education. Outside the classroom, I enjoy cooking, watching documentaries, and spending time with my husband, twin boys, and our cat.

On teaching: I believe all students can find joy and confidence in math when given the right support and opportunities to explore ideas in meaningful ways. I view my classroom as an extension of my home and work to create a safe, welcoming, and supportive space where curiosity, persistence, and collaboration thrive. Through meaningful problem-solving experiences, I help students build a strong mathematical foundation while fostering a genuine love of learning. My classroom is challenging, engaging, and a place where mistakes are part of growth. I see math as a vehicle for success in all areas of life, and my goal is for every student to leave my class feeling like a confident learner who can do hard things—both in math and beyond.