About Ms. Willingham

I grew up passionately pretending that my teddy bears were students and using an old wooden piano seat as my desk. Today, I am living that dream as an educator at Joan K. Mendel Elementary School, where I strive to make learning engaging, meaningful, and unforgettable for every student.

I currently serve as a Math Interventionist, where I am deeply passionate about improving the mathematics learning experience for students. I specialize in designing engaging, meaningful, and memorable learning opportunities that support both students and teachers while strengthening foundational math understanding.

My work also extends into supporting instructional practices and contributing to ongoing conversations around effective mathematics teaching and learning in the primary grades.

I began my career in education as a substitute teacher in 2007. After earning my Bachelor of Arts in Elementary Education from Florida Atlantic University, I committed to teaching full-time, even when it required long commutes, because I knew this was my purpose. I later joined Sunland Park Academy as a first-grade teacher, where I also served in several leadership roles, including School Advisory Council Secretary and Co-Chairman, Sunshine Committee President, Teacher Incentive Fund (TIF) Educator Mentor, and Grade Level Team Leader. During my time there, I was honored to be named Sunland Park Academy’s 2015 Teacher of the Year.

I earned both my Master’s degree and Educational Specialist degree from Nova Southeastern University, with concentrations in Early Literacy, Educational Leadership, and Curriculum and Instruction with a concentration in technology. I am also a member of National Council of Teachers of Mathematics and Phi Delta Kappa.

I am currently a doctoral student at American College of Education. My dissertation focuses on improving mathematics instruction for students in kindergarten through third grade, with an emphasis on creating meaningful, math-rich learning experiences that support all learners.

I believe teaching is both an art and a responsibility of the heart. I am deeply committed to advancing mathematics education, nurturing students’ strengths, building their confidence, and supporting each child in reaching their fullest potential.

Outside of the classroom, I enjoy creating innovative learning experiences, traveling, exploring Tokyo, writing, and expressing my creativity. I am also the owner of a small e-commerce business, where I embrace my entrepreneurial spirit.

I look forward to partnering with you to support your child’s growth and success this school year.

Happy Learning,
Ms. Willingham