The Presidential Award for Excellence in Mathematics and Science Teaching program was established in 1983 by the White House and is sponsored by the National Science Foundation. The award is the nation’s highest honor for math and science (including computer science) teachers. The program identifies outstanding math and science teachers in all 50 states and four U.S. jurisdictions.

Awardees each receive a $10,000 award, a paid trip for two to Washington, D.C., to attend a week-long series of networking opportunities and recognition events, and a special citation signed by the President of the United States.

The program is now accepting nominations of 7th-12th grade teachers. Please take the time to nominate an outstanding math and/or science (including computer science) teacher for this prestigious award. Nominations can be completed online at www.paemst.org. Submit your nomination by April 1, 2017. Nominees would then need to complete their applications by May 1.

In addition, applicants can earn three CEUs at the same time.

To be eligible, a PAEMST candidate must complete all components of the application process and submit a scorable application that can be sent on to the state selection committee. All applicants submitting a scorable application will earn credit, not just the state finalists whose materials get sent on to a national selection panel.

The PAEMST application consists of three components: Administrative, Narrative and Video. The components allow the applicant to provide evidence of deep content knowledge and exemplary pedagogical skills that result in improved student learning. After eligibility is confirmed and technical specifications are met, each application will be evaluated using the following five Dimensions of Outstanding Teaching:

• Mastery of math or science content appropriate for the grade level taught
• Use of instructional methods and strategies that are appropriate for students in the class and that support student learning
• Effective use of student assessments to evaluate, monitor and improve student learning
• Reflective practice and lifelong learning to improve teaching and student learning
• Leadership in education outside the classroom

Complete the application yourself or nominate a deserving teacher today! The application can be accessed at www.paemst.org. If you have questions about this program, please contact:
Allen Hogie
SD PAEMST Mathematics Coordinator
2015 SD Teacher of the Year
Allen.Hogie@k12.sd.us