The Iowa Department of Education recently honored this year's state finalists for the Presidential Awards for Excellence in Mathematics and Science Teaching (PAEMST) during a luncheon at the Science Center of Iowa in Des Moines.
The finalists in science are Kevin Koepnick of City High School, Iowa City, and Jessica Gogerty, North High School, Des Moines. The finalists in math are Brooke Fischels of Ottumwa High School, Ottumwa, and Matt Miller of Washington High School, Cedar Rapids.
The Iowa finalists' applications have been submitted to the national selection committee and one math and one science awardee may be selected to represent Iowa. Awardees receive $10,000 and a week-long trip to Washington, DC, where they will be recognized in several ceremonies and have an opportunity to meet President Barack Obama.
The Presidential Award for Excellence in Mathematics and Science Teaching (PAEMST) is the highest recognition that a kindergarten through 12th grade mathematics or science teacher may receive for outstanding teaching in the United States. Enacted by Congress in 1983, this program authorizes the President to bestow up to 108 awards each year. The National Science Foundation administers PAEMST on behalf of The White House Office of Science and Technology Policy.
Awards are given to mathematics and science teachers from each of the 50 states and four U.S. jurisdictions. The teachers are recognized for their contributions to teaching and learning and their ability to help students make progress in mathematics and science.