Center for Recruitment and Retention of Mathematics Teachers Receives 2 University Awards

The Center for Recruitment and Retention of Mathematics Teachers recently received the University’s Center Award for Excellence by the Employee Recognition Committee. The award recognizes “a single organizational unit whose leadership and practices create a supportive, empowering, and high-performing workplace”. (https://recognition.arizona.edu/awards-criteria) 

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Additionally, CRR Director Rodrigo Gutiérrez received the UNIDOS Employee Excellence Award. UNIDOS, translated directly meaning united, stands for United in Culture, Community, and Purpose, and is “dedicated to building a strong, inclusive community among all faculty, staff, and interested professionals”. Part of this effort is recognizing outstanding Latina/o/e faculty and staff within the university. Dr. Gutiérrez works tirelessly to spread the mission of CRR, constantly creating opportunities within the STEM community for students and educators alike.

Since 2001, CRR has addressed the critical need for qualified mathematics teachers across Arizona while cultivating a culture rooted in collaboration, inclusion, and innovation, where team members are encouraged to grow, lead, and contribute meaningfully. Through strong leadership, open communication, and a focus on work-life balance, CRR fosters an environment where staff feel valued and supported, while its data-informed practices and statewide partnerships drive continuous improvement and impact. From hosting over 60 workshops annually to leading Arizona’s largest mathematics education conference, CRR exemplifies excellence in both its mission-driven work and its internal culture, making it a model for organizational success and a deserving recipient of this recognition. (crr.math.arizona.edu)

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“This recognition affirms the CRR’s deep commitment to ensuring that every student has access to an excellent mathematics teacher,” one representative of the CRR shared, “It reflects years of intentional work to build programs that support students academically and also strengthen and sustain the educator workforce. For CRR, this award is not just an acknowledgment of past success; it is a validation of our mission-driven approach and a reminder that investing in teachers, mentors, and students creates lasting impact across communities. It reinforces our responsibility to continue expanding access, deepening partnerships, and innovating to meet the evolving needs of schools and educators.” 

There are 3 main criteria for this award. First is a commitment to a positive and supportive work culture. CRR prioritizes a culture rooted in respect, collaboration, and continuous support. Team members are encouraged to bring forward ideas, ask questions, and contribute meaningfully to the direction of the work. There is a strong emphasis on mentorship, both internally among staff and externally through their programs, which creates an environment where individuals feel valued and supported in their growth. They are intentional about maintaining open communication, celebrating contributions, and ensuring that workloads and expectations are aligned with a shared understanding of purpose. This culture keeps their team motivated, connected, and committed to the communities they serve. 

Additionally, the unit must exhibit leadership in fostering growth, recognition, and collaboration. The CRR does this by creating opportunities for growth at every level, whether through professional development for educators, leadership roles, or collaborative partnerships with schools and community organizations. 

“We recognize that meaningful impact requires collective effort, so we actively build and sustain partnerships that align with our mission,” they shared, “Recognition is embedded in our work, from celebrating educator and student milestones to elevating the contributions of our team and partners.” By fostering a collaborative ecosystem, CRR ensures that innovation and shared learning remain central to everything they do. 

Finally, the unit has to foster an environment of high performance and shared purpose. CRR operates with a clear sense of accountability and shared responsibility. Their work is guided by data, reflection, and continuous improvement, allowing them to set measurable goals and track progress in meaningful ways. Programs are designed with intention, and team members understand how their roles contribute to broader outcomes.

“Through structured training, consistent communication, and a strong operational foundation, we create an environment where high performance is both expected and supported. At the same time, our shared purpose, expanding access to quality mathematics education, keeps our work grounded and aligned, ensuring that every effort contributes to long-term impact.”

Units must also provide up to 5 letters of support with their nominations. Nominations highlighted how CRR demonstrates its impact by intentionally bridging K–12 education, higher education, and community partnerships, creating a strong and sustainable pipeline of future educators. This comprehensive approach is reflected in signature programs such as IMPACTS, New Teacher Induction, and AmeriCorps STEMM, which simultaneously support student learning while strengthening the educator workforce. 

Through these initiatives, CRR not only addresses immediate academic needs but also invests in long-term teacher preparation and retention. The Center’s influence extends regionally and statewide, particularly through its professional development efforts, including its Summer Institutes for both K-8 and high school educators. These experiences underscore CRR’s commitment to continuous educator growth, instructional excellence, and building systems that support lasting impact across Arizona’s education landscape. 

Congratulations to the CRR on this important recognition! Learn more about what the CRR does at crr.math.arizona.edu.