The practices of middle leaders of mathematics: alignment of their goals and activities

ABSTRACT Leading school mathematics is a complex task and the responsibilities and activities involved are not always clearly defined. School mathematics leaders (SML) in Australian schools are often expected to lead improvement in mathematics teaching and learning. Previous research typically focuses on the qualities of effective leaders rather than the practices of SMLs. Investigated in this study were the goals and activities of Victorian primary (elementary) and secondary SMLs and the alignment of their goals and activities. The most frequent goals focused on teams developing shared understandings and practices for improving learning and teaching. The activities of SMLs included a diverse range of activities inside and outside the classroom, irrespective of the leaders’ main goal. These findings have implications for the professional learning of SMLs and highlight the importance of leaders being provided with sufficient time to undertake leadership practices that align their leadership activities with their leadership goals.