Jennifer Ruef

Jennifer Ruef is an Associate Professor in the Critical and Sociocultural Studies in Education department at the University of Oregon's College of Education, where she bridges decades of K-12 classroom experience with cutting-edge research on equitable mathematics instruction. Her work centers on dismantling systemic barriers in math education through identity-focused pedagogy and collaborative sensemaking frameworks.

Her educational foundation includes:

• Ph.D. in Curriculum and Teacher Education (Secondary Mathematics Education), Stanford University, 2016
• M.S. in Curriculum and Instruction (Secondary Mathematics Education), University of Wisconsin-Madison, 2005
• B.S. in Secondary Mathematics Education, University of Wisconsin-Madison, 1990
• Certification in Secondary Mathematics Education (Grades 6-12)

Ruef's research pioneers decolonizing approaches to mathematics education, examining how student identities are co-constructed through classroom interactions and how Indigenous knowledge systems can transform STEM pedagogy. Her DETRACKING FOR EQUITABLE MATH INSTRUCTION (DEMI) framework challenges tracking practices while promoting relational equity and public sensemaking—where students collaboratively build mathematical arguments. This work directly addresses math trauma and systemic inequities through healing-centered, culturally sustaining practices.

Analysis of her 15 most recent publications reveals a cohesive trajectory: from foundational identity studies (2020-2021) to pandemic-responsive equity work (2022), culminating in her 2024 NSF-funded detraicking initiative. Her scholarship consistently integrates Indigenous epistemologies with mathematics education, demonstrating how cultural values counter colonial harms while advancing STEM inclusivity.

Her major recognitions include:

• NSF Career Award (2024) for $1.04M detraicking project
• University of Oregon Excellence in Teaching Award (2022)
• AMTE STaR Fellowship (2017)
• Stanford University dissertation grants (2015)
• Madison Metropolitan School District Teacher of the Year (2009)

Ruef actively mentors doctoral students including A. Torres and M. Ahearn, with her NSF grant driving multi-year detraicking research across Oregon middle schools. Her community-engaged approach partners with Indigenous elders like V. Beavert to co-develop culturally rooted mathematics curricula, translating academic research into classroom practice through teacher professional development.

Embedded in interdisciplinary networks connecting the College of Education with Pacific Northwest Indigenous communities, Ruef's work operates at the intersection of academia and activism—using collaborative research teams to advance decolonizing mathematics education beyond traditional lab structures.