Presidential Award for Excellence in Mathematics and Science Teaching (PAEMST)

Awarded by the White House each year, the Presidential Award for Excellence in Mathematics and Science Teaching (PAEMST) is the highest recognition a K-12 mathematics or science teacher can receive for outstanding teaching in the United States. In addition to honoring individual achievement, the goal of the award program is to exemplify the highest standards of mathematics and science teaching. Awardees serve as models for their colleagues, inspiration to their communities, and leaders in the improvement of mathematics and science education.

Awards are given to mathematics and science teachers from each of the 50 states and four U.S. jurisdictions. Each state selects up to three mathematics teachers and three science teachers annually as state finalists. Educators are nominated in October and the application process begins in November.

A national selection committee reviews state finalist applications and selects one awardee in each content area for every state. Teachers are recognized for their contributions to teaching and learning and their ability to help students make progress in mathematics and science. As part of the recognition process, awardees take part in a weeklong series of networking and professional development activities in Washington, D.C., and receive $10,000 from the National Science Foundation.

2016 Finalists

Math

Brandy Cooper

6 ^th Grade Mathematics  
Milford Central Academy 
Milford School District

Math

Christa Ferdig

5th Grade Elementary

Long Neck Elementary Indian River School District

Science

Leona Williams

Grade 4 Elementary Forwood Elementary Brandywine School District

Science

Wendy Turner

2 ^nd Grade Elementary

Mt. Pleasant Elementary Brandywine School District