As Melba Passmore Elementary School's newly appointed math interventionist in Alvin, Texas, Kristi Plummer believes there is a mathematician hidden inside every child. And she is exceptionally skilled at finding them! Plummer's kids appreciate her efforts—as do their parents—and many aspire to be a teacher just like her one day.
Plummer employs non-verbal cues, links math to real-world examples, and builds confidence through hands-on activities. She also uses English as a Second Language (ESL) strategies to build vocabulary and skills. Armed with a keen ability to dissect, infer, map, chart, sequence, and answer questions, Plummer develops independent, self-directed and motivated learners. Beyond her teaching responsibilities, Plummer participates in students' extracurricular activities and co-sponsors the student council.
In her former capacity as a fourth- and fifth-grade math and science teacher, more than 90 percent of Melba Passmore's students scored proficient in math and science. In addition, students who were previously low-performing flourished under Plummer's tutelage.
Named as math department chair in only her second year, Plummer has worked across grade levels to align the math curriculum and coordinate instructional strategies. She sits on the campus leadership team and serves as the sheltered instruction trainer. At the district level, she is the representative for math and a member of the prestigious communication committee. Dedicated to professional development, Plummer is pursuing her master's degree in curriculum and instruction. She is a respected mentor to new teachers and a natural leader who defines professionalism every day.
