Dr. Joe Backman, Curriculum Director of Professional Learning and Elementary Mathematics for Alpine School District (largest in Utah) has led out on professional learning in all 62 elementary schools in Alpine to ensure students acquire the essential knowledge, skills, and dispositions they need to thrive in life. Joe has been an elementary teacher, BYU partnership facilitator and CFA, school principal, and curriculum director. He has presented nationally and internationally on the work and research in Alpine. He led his school and district to partner with universities, businesses, and has helped schools network as multi-school PLCs. He continues to perform educational research at BYU and has been an adjunct professor. Dr. Backman received his undergraduate degree in Elementary Education, and a Master's Degree and Ph.D. in Educational Leadership at BYU. Joe and his wife are proud parents of four awesome boys and one beautiful baby girl.