Although we’re winding down the school year, hiring for the fall semester is already in full swing. Schools are preparing to welcome a new wave of educators—some stepping into their first-ever classroom, others navigating a new grade level or curriculum. No matter their background, new math teachers benefit from having the right tools and support in place from day one.

Here are a few practical ways math leads and school leaders can help new teachers feel confident, prepared, and empowered:

1. Offer Flexible, Built-In Instructional Support

Even the most enthusiastic new teacher can feel overwhelmed without a strong support system. That’s why having accessible, standards-based resources is key.

MathKEYmatics, NTN’s online assessment and instruction platform, includes powerful tools to support instruction and build teacher confidence—including concept-based lessons and on-demand professional development. Both are now part of the MathKEYmatics bundle.

KEMS lessons promote conceptual understanding of grade-level math content for students in grades 3 through Algebra. Designed to be infused into a teacher’s existing pacing, these lessons are ideal for frontloading new content and giving students a strong foundation in critical skills.

But KEMS doesn’t just support students—it also builds teacher capacity. For many new teachers:

  • Elementary educators may have taken only one or two math methods courses in their preservice programs, leading to less confidence in teaching math. 
  • Secondary educators often study math content deeply, but may receive limited preparation in instructional strategies and lesson planning. 

KEMS addresses both challenges. The teacher resources include modeling boxes and on-demand PD videos to deepen content knowledge and pedagogy. New teachers get clear, practical guidance on how to deliver effective, engaging lessons.

2. Be Ready for Teacher Vacancies and Substitutes

Unfortunately, staffing gaps are a reality. Whether due to vacancies or long-term absences, many schools face moments when a classroom is led by a substitute without a math background.

NTN Tip: KEMS can help here too. Lessons are ready to play with a click, allowing subs to lead standards-based instruction without missing a beat. Students follow along in consumable workbooks and participate in group activities that strengthen their understanding through collaboration and discussion.

The On-Demand Training also provides cues on when to pause for engagement opportunities, ensuring the learning environment remains cohesive—even when the lead teacher isn’t present.

3. Incorporate Hands-On Learning

Help new teachers break free from worksheets and explore fun, tactile ways to teach math. Simple manipulatives—like place value blocks, fraction tiles, or number lines—can help students visualize abstract concepts and make learning stick. 

NTN Tip: Our partner schools use our KEMS manipulatives to engage students of all ages.

4. Create a Low-Stress Peer Mentoring System

Pair new teachers with experienced peers, ideally someone teaching the same subject or grade level. Even informal 10-minute weekly chats can help new teachers feel supported and less isolated. Give new teachers a list of “go-to” people for content help, tech tips, classroom management, and where to find materials in the building.

NTN tip: We have the BEST math coaches! Our coaches are all former math teachers themselves, so they know how to collaborate and support teachers in a non-invasive manner.

5. Celebrate Progress, Not Perfection

New teachers won’t get everything right on day one—and they don’t need to. Encourage reflection, celebrate small wins, and remind them that growth takes time. A thoughtful note, a shout-out at a team meeting, or a quick check-in can go a long way.

A strong start for new teachers leads to stronger outcomes for students. With helpful tools like MathKEYmatics (and its built-in support features like KEMS and on-demand PD), plus a little intentional encouragement from school leaders, we can give every new math teacher a real shot at success.

Reach out to get a free demo on MathKeymatics and how it can set your teachers up for success. Schedule a time today!