Are you ready for a new kind of summer learning—one that’s practical, inspiring, and designed with you in mind?

At The Fresh Thinking Conference, you’ll get:

A clear, common-sense approach to teaching math at every grade level

Free, follow-up PD and ongoing support throughout the year

Math centers and digital resources as a thank you for all you do

Assistance with conference expenses whenever possible

Join us for two, incredible days of inspired learning and collaboration led by Greg Tang Sr. and Greg Tang Jr., plus dynamic keynote and breakout sessions from Dr. Amy Casey, Tammy Tang, and Shelly Chandra. (flyer)

If you’re looking for fresh ideas that will transform your teaching and enrich your life, this is the conference for you. Fresh thinking is on the way!

 
 
 

1
Proven Strategies, Not Popular Trends

Every session is based on the work Tang Math has done with 140,000 teachers and 2.4 million students. Our methods are producing huge gains in student understanding and test scores. No fluff – just research-based learning progressions that work.

 

2
Resources For Your Classroom

We’ll equip every attendee with hands-on math centers and puzzle packs — engaging, fluency-building activities that make math stick.

 

3
Teacher Grants

Funding can be a challenge. If your school can’t cover costs and outside grants don’t fill the gap, we will do our best to help. We’ve allocated 85% of our budget to supporting you and your students.

 

4
Year-Round Partnership

True professional development requires follow-up. That’s why we will continue to offer our help throughout the school year:

Free monthly PD sessions

Help with lesson planning

Live & recorded student lessons

 
 

Who Should Attend?

Join us this summer to learn, explore, and collaborate with like-minded educators. Come one, come all. Help us spread the word by sharing our flyer with friends and colleagues. We welcome the Fresh Thinking Class of 2025!

 

Presenters

Greg Tang Sr is the author of the Tang Math K-5 curriculum, a program designed to help teachers develop confident, capable thinkers and problem solvers. With decades of experience and a gift for making math make sense, he continues to inspire educators and students nationwide.

Since 2001, Greg has led more than 4,000 in-person workshops, conferences, and school visits. In just the past four years, he has taught over 2,500 virtual sessions, reaching more than 2.4 million students through his live lessons.

Greg is also the New York Times best-selling author of The Grapes of Math, the gold medal-winning eBook Math Appeal, and six other popular books published by Scholastic.

Amy Casey, Ph.D., is the Assistant Superintendent for Center School District, a small urban district in Kansas City. She has devoted 32 years to education, beginning her career as a music and 5th grade teacher. She later spent 18 years in school leadership, serving as a principal and assistant principal at three schools in North Kansas City, Missouri.
 
Amy is deeply committed to fostering connectedness, belonging, and love in educational spaces. Her expertise spans Positive Behavioral Interventions and Supports (PBIS), Multi-Tiered System of Supports (MTSS), Professional Learning Communities (PLC’s), Professional Development, Curriculum and Instruction, and Restorative Practices while creating equitable and inclusive learning spaces.
 
A life-long learner, Amy is also a Modern Meditation Teacher and Certified Integrative Health Coach. She finds joy in supporting others on their journeys toward growth and well-being.
 
Greg Tang Jr. is the creator of TangMath.com and an expert in education technology. His journey into the tech world began at Brown University, where in 2014, he co-founded his first startup—a virtual reality company integrating motion-capture technology with training applications. This early venture set the stage for Greg’s tech-driven future.
 
In 2016, he launched Tang Math LLC, growing it into a global online retailer for math games and puzzles. Over the next three years, he built the largest student enrichment and Math Night program in the country, hosting over 200 events annually and expanding summer school programs to eight cities nationwide.
 
Today, as CEO of Tang Math, Greg continues to push the boundaries of math education, embracing AI and emerging technologies to shape the future of learning.
 
Tammy Tang is the creator of many of the Brain Builder enrichment puzzles featured in the Tang Math K-5 curriculum. She also developed numerous puzzles for Tang Math’s Tangy Tuesday and Wordy Wednesday series. Before joining Tang Math, Tammy spent 32 years in public education as an elementary and middle school teacher, later serving as an instructional technology specialist. During that time, she also authored nearly a dozen best-selling technology books.
 
A nationally recognized presenter, Tammy has been a keynote and featured speaker at major technology conferences, including ISTE, TCEA, NCCE, and NCTies. Throughout her career, she has worked with K-12 teachers and students nationwide, focusing on innovative and effective ways to integrate technology and enhance learning.
 
Shelly Chandra is the Math and Science Curriculum Coordinator for the Lower School at St. John’s, a private school in Houston. With experience teaching both Lower and Middle School, she has a deep understanding of how students learn math at different stages.
 
Passionate about making math engaging, visual, and intuitive, Shelly equips educators and students with the tools they need to develop strong problem-solving skills and confidence in mathematics.

Sessions

At The Fresh Thinking Conference, we’re reimagining how students learn math. Our goal? To make learning easier, longer lasting, and more enjoyable—for both students and teachers alike.

Every session is designed with three objectives in mind:

Content Zero in on the key math strategies and skills students need to master in every grade level.
Pedagogy Use proven progressions of models, equations, and algorithms to ensure all students truly learn.
Teachers Engage in hands-on experiences with the models and methods that make math concepts click – and stick.

Print schedule

JULY 14

JULY 15

Sessions for Monday, July 14th

8:00-9:10The Gift of Fresh ThinkingGreg Tang Sr

Have you ever experienced a mind-changing insight – an “a-ha” moment that seemed to appear out of nowhere? That rush of satisfaction, the smile it brings, the desire to have another?

Insights are more than just realizations; they’re sights from within. They unlock true learning and lasting change. They come from fresh thinking—new, more creative, and more open ways of seeing the world around us.

In our opening session, we’ll take a fast-paced tour through arithmetic, fractions, algebraic equations, and word problems. Will it change how you see math? Will you discover new insights about your teaching? Will it spark fresh thinking about your own abilities and those of your students?

Math – and you – will never be the same!

9:15-10:30Building Number Sense (K-2)Greg Tang Sr

When students develop strong number sense, arithmetic operations become much easier. But what exactly is number sense? Do some kids naturally have it, while others don’t? And if they don’t, how can we help them build it?

Join us as we explore the most effective ways to develop number sense in the early grades. We’ll use concrete and pictorial models — including snap cubes, ten frames, number bonds, and a game changing digital subitizing tool - to build a deep, lasting understanding of numbers.

9:15-10:30Visual Models (3-5)Greg Tang Jr

How can concrete and pictorial models help students master multiplication and division facts? Can they also lay the foundation for fractions, mixed numbers, and decimals? Are they the key to truly understanding the distributive property?

Join Greg Jr. for a step-by-step progression of models, strategies, and skills—starting with single-digit operations and building up to multi-digit factors, products, and quotients. This session will give you practical, classroom-ready tools to strengthen students’ fluency and deepen their mathematical understanding.

10:35-11:50Visual Models (K-2)Greg Tang Jr

How do concrete and pictorial models help students master addition and subtraction? Can they also build the foundation for multiplication and division? Could a strong grasp of additive thinking be the key to developing multiplicative reasoning in later grades?

Join Greg Jr. for a step-by-step journey through concrete models, strategies, and skills—beginning with single-digit operations in the early grades and progressing to multi-digit parts and totals as students advance. Walk away with practical, classroom-ready tools to strengthen fluency and deepen student understanding.

10:35-11:50Base 10 Thinking (3-5)Greg Tang Sr

When students develop strong number sense, multiplication, division, and fractions become much easier. But what exactly is number sense, and how do we develop it? If we want students to understand our Base 10 number system, are Base 10 blocks enough? Are Base 10 discs necessary or nice-to-have?

In this session, we’ll explore the most effective ways to develop number sense and a true understanding of our Base 10, place-value number system. We’ll use a strategic progression of proportional and non-proportional concrete models, then transition to pictorial number bonds. Join us in laying a foundation for algorithms that’s based on understanding.

12:30-1:40Fraction Foundations (K-2)Greg Tang Sr

Traditional approaches to teaching fractions rely on circles, rectangles, pies, pizzas, cookies, and brownies. They’re everywhere—woven into popular math programs and even state standards. Yet, fractions remain one of the biggest stumbling blocks for students as they progress in math.

What if there’s a better way? What if these familiar models are part of the journey but not the best place to start?

Join us for a fresh, strategic approach to teaching fractions. We’ll introduce a smarter progression of models designed to build true understanding—so fractions no longer hold students back.

Your satis-fraction is guaranteed!

12:30-1:40Procedural Fluency & Algorithms (3-5)Greg Tang Jr

Looking for a divisive topic in math education? Look no further than algorithms! Some argue they hinder understanding, while others see them as essential for efficiency and problem-solving.

But what if the real issue isn’t whether we teach algorithms, but how we teach them? Could teaching them well actually deepen understanding? Are they the key to procedural fluency?

Join Greg Jr. to explore why algorithms are a crucial final step in the progression from concrete to pictorial to abstract models. When taught effectively, they help students generalize concepts and confidently tackle everything from large whole numbers to tiny fractions and decimals.

1:45-2:55Abstract Symbols & Equations (K-2)Greg Tang Jr

In the primary grades, we focus on building strong number sense, regrouping ones, tens, and hundreds, mastering key strategies like making 10 to add and subtract, and getting comfortable with the language of mathematics.

In this session, join Greg Jr. as he shares practical and proven techniques to help students move beyond concrete and pictorial models – ideal for smaller numbers – and become proficient with abstract symbols and equations – essential for working with larger numbers.

1:45-2:55Fraction Fundamentals (3-5)Greg Tang Sr

Are there a few key concepts and skills students must master to become truly proficient with fractions? Is there a simpler, more effective, and more satisfying way to teach them? And when fractions are taught well, does it make decimals easier to learn and understand?

Join Greg Sr. for a strategic, streamlined, and systematic approach to teaching fractions. We’ll build on whole-number skills, use powerful linear models like number lines and bar models, and most importantly, apply common-sense thinking. Your satis-fraction is guaranteed!

3:00-4:00AI & UTammy Tang

AI isn’t just for tech gurus—it’s a game-changer for busy teachers! In this session, we’ll explore free AI tools that can help you save time, stay organized, and spark creativity—both in the classroom and in your daily life.

From streamlining lesson planning and communication to simplifying everyday tasks and generating fresh ideas, these practical, easy-to-use tools will make both your teaching and personal life more efficient, enjoyable, and rewarding.

3:00-4:00Lesson PlanningShelly Chandra

Great math teaching isn’t just about covering content – it’s about crafting lessons that help students truly understand math. In this session, we’ll explore practical strategies for designing structured, engaging lessons that build conceptual understanding and problem-solving skills.

Learn how to launch a lesson effectively, incorporate rich problem-solving tasks, and facilitate meaningful discussions that deepen student learning. Walk away with clear, actionable ideas to make your math instruction more intentional and impactful!

3:00-4:00Coding & KidsGreg Tang Jr

We hear the term “computer coding” all the time, but what does it really mean? Join Greg Jr. for an engaging introduction to the world of technology and programming!

In this session, you'll explore fundamental coding concepts through fun, hands-on activities—simple enough to use with your own students.

Whether you're looking to build a strong foundation for the future or just curious about how it all works, this is the perfect place to start. No experience necessary!

3:00-3:30Clarity Thru Meditation (:30)Dr. Amy Casey

Welcome to a simple and calming meditation session designed for beginners. In this brief practice, we’ll focus on connecting with our breath and observing our mind. Meditation can be a powerful tool to reduce stress, improve focus, and promote overall well-being. All you need to do is find a comfortable spot, close your eyes, and breathe naturally.

Enjoy this brief and easy meditation session as we wind down and take a few moments to quiet ourselves after a busy day of learning.

JULY 14

JULY 15

Day 1 of our Fresh Thinking Conference focused on effective models and methods for building a deep understanding of Base 10 and place value, along with strong computational skills across all four operations.

Day 2 takes learning a step further, applying students' understanding and skills to tackle word problems, algebraic reasoning, geometry, measurement, and data analysis through engaging, problem-solving experiences.

Sessions for Tuesday, July 15th

8:00-9:00Nourishing Your Educator Heart, Body, Mind, and SpiritDr. Amy Casey

During the span of Dr. Casey’s 32-year career, she watched teachers and principals pour their hearts and energy into their schools and students, often leaving themselves burned out after putting themselves last. Having true servant hearts, they were trying to pour from an empty cup!

There is a reason the airlines tell us to put our oxygen masks on first! If we desire to stop giving our leftovers to everyone (including ourselves), we must learn to nourish our educator hearts, bodies, minds and spirits. By doing this, we will discover our purpose, find true joy in serving others, and find a healthy work/life balance.

Amy knows this can happen, because it happened for her! During our time together, she will demonstrate how mindfulness, meditation, nutrition and journaling can support our fresh thinking as we tackle the challenges education throws our way!

9:05-10:15Addition & Subtraction Word Problems (K-2)Greg Tang Jr

In this session, we’ll explore start, change, and result unknown word problems – including add-to, put-together, take-from, and take-apart scenarios. We will begin with single-step problems and gradually build up to two-step problems.

Is there a consistent way to model all nine problem types so students stop guessing and start reasoning? Can we help them truly understand keywords instead of relying on rules that don’t always work – like “in all” means “add” and “some” means it’s a part, not the total?

Take a deep dive into word problems with Greg Jr. and transform the way you teach word problems – forever!

9:05-10:15Measurement, Data, and Geometry (3-5)Greg Tang Sr

Can students develop their computation, measurement, and data skills – all at the same time? Can they strengthen their reasoning skills by measuring and solving problems about lines, angles, geometric shapes, and solids?

Join Greg Sr. as he uncovers key concepts and connections from the Measurement & Data and Geometry domains. Through exploration and problem-solving, you’ll discover powerful ways to help students make sense of math – rather than just memorize.

Don’t miss this chance to transform the way you teach measurement, data, and geometry – math that measures up!

10:20-11:30Measurement, Data, and Geometry (K-2)Greg Tang Sr

What’s the key to helping kids when they’re older? Give them a stronger foundation when they’re younger! In this engaging session, Greg Sr. will share creative, age-appropriate ways to introduce key measurement, data, and geometry concepts early – making tricky topics easier down the road.

Using clear visuals and smart strategies, Greg will show how simple ideas – counting paperclips to explore 2D shapes and perimeter, using picture graphs to build number sense, and using snap cubes to calculate length and area – can transform the way students learn.

10:20-11:30Multiplication & Division Word Problems (3-5)Greg Tang Jr

In this session, we’ll dive into multiplicative comparison word problems, tackling unknown scale factors, larger numbers, and smaller numbers with a clear, strategic approach. We'll start with single-step problems and build up to multistep problems, ensuring a solid understanding at every stage.

By using visual models, students can make sense of word problems and see for themselves why keywords and shortcuts do not always work. Join Greg Jr. as he shares a systematic approach to modeling comparison word problems that’s truly beyond compare!

12:00-1:10Additive Comparison Word Problems (K-2)Greg Tang Jr

In this session, we’ll make sense of comparison word problems—including unknown difference, larger number, and smaller number scenarios. We’ll start with single-step problems and gradually progress to two-step problems.

Is there a consistent way to model all six problem types so students stop guessing and start reasoning? Can we guide them to understand a keyword’s context – how it is being used – rather than rely on unreliable shortcuts like “more” means add and “fewer” means subtract?

Join Greg Jr. for an even deeper dive into word problems and transform the way you teach!

12:00-1:10Reasoning & Enrichment (3-5)Greg Tang Sr

Do you spend a lot of time searching for problems that will challenge your high-fliers? Do you spend just as much time looking for meaningful enrichment for your struggling students and those working at grade level?

Join Greg Sr. for an eye-opening conversation about what it truly means to be good at math. We’ll dive into enrichment, rigor, differentiation, reasoning, computation, speed, memorization, mistakes, and depth of knowledge. We’ll try to dispel misconceptions and uncover what really matters.

Together, we’ll tackle challenging problems that can enrich every student and explore simple yet powerful ways to make any problem more engaging, accessible, and rewarding.

Math – and the way you teach it – may never be the same!

1:15-2:25Reasoning & Enrichment (K-2)Greg Tang Sr

Are primary students too young to think algebraically? Is it too early for them to solve a system of equations? Is it too much to expect them to use substitution to find the value of an unknown variable?

Join Greg Sr. for an eye-opening session on what young children can do – not just the advanced or gifted kids – but all kids! Discover how well-crafted, thoughtfully-designed problems can build the reasoning and thinking skills every student needs.

Fresh thinking, anyone?

1:15-2:25Multiplicative Comparison Word Problems (3-5)Greg Tang Jr

In this session, we’ll break down multiplicative word problems – including unknown scale factor, larger number, and smaller number scenarios. Starting with single-step problems and progressing to two-step problems, we’ll help students develop a logical, reliable approach.

Is there a way to model different problem types so students stop relying on keywords as a “trick” to determine the operation? Can we show them that shortcuts like “times as many means multiply” don’t always work – and that the real key isn’t a trick at all? It’s about understanding context and how keywords are being used.

Join Greg Jr. for an eye-opening exploration of multiplicative comparison problems and transform the way you teach!

2:30-3:00The Future of Fresh ThinkingGreg Sr & Greg Jr

AI is here, and it’s going to affect our lives in ways we can’t yet imagine. Schools, classrooms, students, and the role of educators are all about to change – dramatically. But how? Even the experts don’t agree.

One thing we can agree on is good teaching. It can come in many forms and many styles, but we all recognize it when we experience it. It’s in those aha moments – those flashes of insight that forever change the way we think and learn.

Join Greg Sr. and Greg Jr. as they share their vision for the future. Not the distant future – the 2025-26 school year! How will AI shape the way we teach math? Will it help deepen understanding, or make rote and procedural thinking even more commonplace?

Change is coming fast. The question isn’t if AI will transform education – it’s how. If you’ve enjoyed your experience with us over the past two days, months, years, or decades, we hope you will continue to work with us to make classrooms, schools, and our world a better place for kids.

3:00-3:30The Fresh Thinking Class of 2025All Presenters

We want to express our gratitude for the time you’ve shared with us – here at the conference, at home for Saturday Math Meetups, and in your classrooms for our student lessons.

To show our appreciation, we have math centers, puzzle packs, and a parting gift for everyone, as well as grant checks for teachers sponsored by our foundation.

Many thanks to the Fresh Thinking Class of 2025 – your dedication to teaching and learning inspires us all!

JULY 14

JULY 15

Meals & Beverages

The Fresh Thinking Foundation, with generous support from the Cooperating School Districts of Greater Kansas City, will make sure you stay fueled and focused throughout the conference.

Each morning from 7:30–8:00, enjoy a light breakfast, and from 11:50–12:30, join us for a lunch buffet. We’ll do our best to keep you caffeinated, energized, and on schedule.

By providing meals, we can extend our sessions, maximize learning time, and reduce your out-of-pocket costs. Eating together also gives us the opportunity to make new friends, build relationships, and strengthen our growing community. Now that’s fresh thinking!

Free for dinner on Monday at 5:00 PM? Join our friendly team of speakers, educator friends Annette, Luis, Paul, and Rachelle, and foundation board members Tim and Zach for Kansas City Barbecue. We’ll have you back by 7:00 with plenty of time to rest up for Day 2 of our amazing conference!


 

Hotel

DoubleTree Overland Park
10100 College Blvd
Overland Park, KS 66210
Phone: 913-451-6100
https://www.hilton.com/en/hotels/mcimsdt-doubletree-kansas-city-overland-park

We have secured a special hotel room block at a discounted rate of $165 per night (includes taxes and fees). Booking through our exclusive link includes complimentary in-room internet and free overnight parking, ensuring a comfortable and convenient stay.

Click here to book your hotel room.


 


 

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Click here to see Frequently Asked Questions

2. Email us at: freshthinkingfoundation@gmail.com


 

Register to attend

The cost of our conference is $500. A light breakfast and lunch is included both days. Our goal is to make this the best two days of learning you have ever experienced. Please help us spread the word by sharing our link with your colleagues:
freshthinkingfoundation.org/conference

Our conference will take place at the DoubleTree Overland Park, in Kansas. For hotel information and to book a room, click here.

Questions? Please contact us at: freshthinkingfoundation@gmail.com

Click here to register and pay!
 
 

Need assistance with funding?

Apply for a grant.

 

Things to do in Kansas City

Sea Life Aquarium Kansas City Discover the two-story aquarium, featuring more than 30 phenomenal displays directly inside the Crown Center Complex.

LEGOLAND Discovery Center Kansas City A world of color, creativity and fun, attractions, rides, 4D cinema and more.

Kemper Museum of Contemporary Art A city gem, the Kemper Museum of Contemporary Art houses famous contemporary pieces, exhibitions and more.

Truman Sports Complex Home to both Arrowhead and Kauffman Stadiums which houses the Kansas City Chiefs football team and 2015 World Series Champion Kansas City Royals baseball team.

Kansas City Zoo The Kansas City Zoo is 200 acres and includes African, Australian and Farmland exhibits, among many others.

Crown Center There’s always something going on at this Kansas City entertainment center. Check out the free outdoor movies and concerts during the summer months.

Country Club Plaza The Downtown District offers premier dining, shopping, entertainment and events in Kansas City.

The Nelson-Atkins Museum of Art Internationally recognized for its collection of more than 33,500 objects from ancient times to modern day.

Science City Learning is fun with hands-on activities and over 50 interactive areas.

Oceans of Fun Explore 60-acres of drenching slides and water attractions.

Worlds of Fun Explore the Amusement Park with thrill rides, attractions, shows and more to enjoy for the whole family.

Hallmark Visitors Center Catch a behind-the-scenes peek at the world’s largest greeting-card company headquarters directly inside our Crown Center complex.

Kaleidoscope From the minds behind Hallmark, experience a free creative workshop for kids ages 5 to 12.


Arts & Cultural Activities in Kansas City

American Jazz Museum Includes interactive exhibits and films, educational programs, the Changing Gallery, the Blue Room jazz club and the Gem Theater, a 500-seat performing arts center.

Negro Leagues Baseball Museum Founded in 1990 to commemorate African American history in baseball, the Negro Leagues Baseball Museum is a great place to explore history, exhibits, news and events.

National World War One Museum Designated by Congress as the official World War One Museum, the museum showcases the history around the world during World War One using impressive interactive technologies.

The Nelson-Atkins Museum of Art Internationally recognized for its collection of more than 33,500 objects and artifacts from ancient times to modern day.

Coterie Theatre A professional Equity theatre serving families and young audiences, Coterie Theatre is named “one of the five best theatres for young audiences in the US” by Time Magazine.

Tammy & Greg’s Delightful Dozen

El Pulgarcito
One of Tammy’s top five restaurants in the US! Don’t miss the sweet plantains with crema. If you’ve never had a pupusa, this is the place to try it. We love the spinach, zucchini. and cheese pupusas – Espinaca Loroco Y Queso!

André’s Confiserie
Greg loves the Napoleon (Mille-Feuille), while Tammy is partial to the Salted Caramel Macaron.

Ocean Prime
We are crazy about their sushi, especially during half-price happy hour in the Lounge!

Slaps, Q39 Midtown, & Joe’s KC Bar-B-Que
Three of our favorite local BBQ joints—each one worth the visit!

1889 Pizza Napoletana
Fantastic pizza with a thin yet perfectly chewy crust.

Cupini’s
Their sausage & fennel ravioli (with olive oil and salt) is a must-try, and their Zuccotto cake is absolutely incredible!

Bella Napoli
Delicious Italian food, and their margherita pizza used to be just $8 on Mondays!

Messenger Coffee, Ibis Bakery, & Black Dog Coffeehouse
All connected and all amazing. Be sure to try a Kouign Amann. We've eaten them all over the U.S. and these are the best!


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