Christina Buckley, M.A. '12: Mastering Math Education

by Cecil Harris

The Ruth S. Ammon School of Education is partnering with the College of Arts and Sciences to prepare graduate students to teach math in high-needs areas. The Department of Mathematics and Computer Science provides content courses that complement the students’ curriculum courses. Since 2012, six students who have earned a master’s degree through the program are teaching math full time at schools in Brooklyn and Queens, New York; Paterson, New Jersey; and Miami, Florida.

Many of the students are in the Scholar Teacher Education Program (STEP., said Robert Bradley, Ph.D., director of the M.A. in Math Education program. Others, like Christina Buckley, came to Adelphi as graduates of other colleges. Ms. Buckley qualified for funding through the Robert Noyce Scholarship Program, which can cover the entire cost of a master’s degree. In exchange, she agreed to teach at least two years at a high-needs school. Ms. Buckley teaches math at Summit Academy Charter School in Brooklyn. She also coached the girls basketball team to the 2013 playoffs.

Did you choose to pursue your M.A. at Adelphi University because of this program?


I chose the program at Adelphi in 2009 when I began my job as the assistant women’s basketball coach at Adelphi. At the time, I knew I wanted to get my master’s degree in secondary math education, so it worked out perfectly.

What did you like about Adelphi’s program?


Adelphi has numerous connections with school districts throughout Long Island and New York City. Additionally, they have scholarship opportunities for those interested in teaching in a high-needs school. I was offered the Noyce scholarship, which allowed me to complete my master’s course work at no cost.

When did you become interested in teaching math?


After I graduated from Saint Anselm College in 2007, I worked as a statistical researcher at CBS Sports, but did not feel career satisfaction. I knew that I wanted to become a high school teacher and coach. Adelphi helped me make that transition.

What is your impression of Adelphi?

Christina Buckley (center), a former assistant women’s basketball coach at Adelphi, now teaches math and coaches girls’ basketball at Summit Academy Charter School.


Adelphi is on the rise. The campus is beautiful. The class sizes were perfect for my learning style, and the professors are incredibly approachable and personable. Attending Adelphi University is easily one of the best decisions I’ve ever made.

How did Adelphi prepare you for your current position?

The student teaching program at Adelphi is priceless. I spent eight weeks in the Uniondale School District teaching eighth-grade mathematics and eight weeks teaching high school mathematics. The program at Adelphi helps with the New York State certification process, which can be quite daunting. Adelphi prepared me so well that I was hired by Summit Academy one hour after my demo lesson and interview.

What would you tell someone who is considering pursuing the M.A. in Math Education at Adelphi?

Enroll! If you’re truly interested in becoming a math teacher in New York, Adelphi’s program is the best. Once you’ve enrolled, please take advantage of all the professors within the Ruth S. Ammon School of Education. Their experience and expertise are priceless.