College math coordinators assist students in registering for full or restricted classes. For example, if a course has enrollment restrictions, the coordinator works with both the student and the registrar's office to find a place for the student. At the high school level, math coordinators may help students find open spots in classes necessary for graduation.
A college math department coordinator may work with high school students applying for special programs. At the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT), for instance, a mathematics department coordinator's duties include matching high school students (who are accepted into MIT's Research Science Institute program) with a graduate student mentor.
In some school districts, when math class becomes too challenging for a student, the math coordinator, the student and his guidance counselor work together to place the student in a more appropriate class. If a student is struggling in algebra, he may be placed in pre-algebra by the mathematics coordinator. Or if a student is breezing through the mathematics coursework, she may be placed in a higher-level class.
For student-teaching appointments the mathematics department coordinator synchronizes each placement. At larger universities math coordinators may manage graduate students who work as teaching assistants. For grade schools or high schools, coordinators pair student teachers with a qualified, experienced teacher who oversees the student teacher.
High school or college mathematics department coordinators often act as a liaison with other departments. At a university they may provide content for the school's website to the information technology department or provide the registrar with a list of course offerings. Mathematics department coordinators also collaborate with student groups, guidance counselors and other organizations.