I didn't set out to be a math teacher. I spent a decade as an exploration geologist using mathematics every day to solve real problems across Northern BC, Nunavut, and Australia. I wasn't particularly good at math but I found comfort in the logic of it. Math was a tool, practical, full of patterns. I never understood why people had so much anxiety and disdain for math.
After completing my teaching degree I interviewed for a Geology position in Squamish BC. The principal caught me on the way out and asked if I'd consider teaching mathematics instead.
That decision led to 20 years at Howe Sound Secondary School, where I served as department head and eventually created a numeracy coordinator role within the School District. I worked with elementary and middle school teachers, many of whom had their own aversions towards mathematics, developing strategies and resources to support their students, and themselves.
Since moving to Toronto in 2021, I had the opportunity to connect with a new school (Gr 2-8) with many students who had largely given up on school entirely. I developed a math program that had to accommodate various learning abilities and ages. My time at The Cole Academy gave me a different perspective on my teaching and teaching in general. It was truly inspirational.
I may not be in a classroom anymore, but the mission is the same: take the fear out of math and bring the humanity back in.
Learn more about my concept-first approach to teaching math →
Through online courses, teaching resources, and coaching, I work with students, parents, and educators to do what I've always done, meet people where they are, build from the ground up, and make math feel like something that belongs to them.
Whether you're 8, 18, or 80, it's not too late to change your relationship with mathematics.
Self-paced video lessons that focus on understanding, not memorization. Organized by concept — not grade level — so you can start where you need to, fill in the gaps, and build real confidence over time. Each course has clear notes, examples, and practice to reinforce your learning.
Downloadable lessons and worksheets for teachers and homeschooling parents, designed around complete concept progressions rather than curriculum pacing guides. Start from the beginning, identify the gaps, and build from there.
One-on-one and small group coaching for students, adult learners, parents, and educators, including Teacher Professional Development. Tailored to where you are and where you want to go.
I bring families, schools, and communities together through interactive Math Nights. There are puzzles, games and activities that make mathematics feel approachable. We look at the playful side of thinking mathematically.
"You were my favourite teacher throughout all of grade school, not just in math. You made the exercises fun, the teaching engaging, and you were always happy to give some background, purpose, and application to the equations and formulas we were learning. I always looked forward to your class throughout the years that you taught me. Your teaching style and the effect it had on my enjoyment of math definitely played a part in me deciding to go into the field of engineering."
2014 Graduate from Howe Sound Secondary School
"He was a standout teacher in my high school career. His enthusiasm, knowledge, and dynamic teaching method left a huge impression on me. I am now a private math tutor, working with some of Mr. Gregr's students and they all agree that Mr. Gregr makes it a much more enjoyable experience. I can say with great certainty that anyone who gets the opportunity to have Mr. Gregr assist them in their journey through math will come out the other side with an amazing experience from working with him!"
2007 Graduate from Howe Sound Secondary School