Melissa Sears is a Mathematics Instructional Coach supporting the implementation of the Common Core Math Standards, the Standards for Mathematical Practices and high-quality math instruction in Chicago schools.  She earned her Bachelor of Arts in Business and Environmental Studies from Lake Forest College, her Master of Science in Education from Northwestern University, and completed Concordia University Chicago’s Illinois Principal Preparation Master’s Program. In her 15 plus years in education, Melissa has worked as a middle school math teacher, a school administrator, as well as an instructional math specialist.  She is passionate about supporting K-12 math educators as an effective thought partner, helping teachers gain confidence in their craft. Melissa’s aim as a mathematics coach is to help strengthen teachers’ instructional toolkits to cultivate highly engaging, student-centered classrooms where mathematicians will grow and thrive.