12 From State Nominated for Presidential Awards in Math and Science Teaching

From the Department of Public Instruction

Twelve Wisconsin teachers have been nominated to the Presidential Awards for Excellence in Mathematics and Science Teaching program.

The Presidential Teaching Awards program recognizes elementary and secondary teachers for their commitment and dedication to nurturing student interest in science and mathematics. Each state finalist receives $750 and will be recognized at an awards program and reception Sept. 19 at the Inn on the Park in Madison. Their names also are forwarded for consideration for the Presidential Awards for Excellence in Mathematics and Science Teaching.

Wisconsin's mathematics finalists are:

• Raymond Blum, Spring Harbor Middle School, Madison;
• Karen Kinyon, Franklin Elementary School, Manitowoc;
• Jo Olson, Toki Middle School, Madison;
• Jane Patterson, Fritsche Middle School, Milwaukee;
• Susan Popelka, River Falls High School;
• Douglas Yost, Lincoln Elementary School, Madison.

This year's science finalists are:

• Sheila Briggs, Glendale Elementary School, Madison;
• Alan Ginsburg, Van Hise Elementary School, Madison;
• Mark Klawiter, Ladysmith High School;
• Candace Nerge, Crestwood Elementary School, Madison;
• Paul Tweed, Augusta High School;
• Donald Vincent, West High School, Madison.

"Although there is just one Presidential Teaching Award winner in mathematics and science at both the elementary and secondary level -- a total of four in the state -- nomination to this program is representative of the outstanding contributions so many teachers make to the education of young people," said State Superintendent John T. Benson.

The 216 winners -- representing the 50 states, District of Columbia, Puerto Rico, Department of Defense schools, and U.S. territories -- will travel to Washington, D.C., to participate in conferences on precollege science and mathematics teaching and a ceremony at the White House. Elementary and secondary winners will have separate recognition programs and conferences.

Those selected for Presidential Teaching Awards also will receive a $7,500 grant to supplement their schools' science or mathematics budget. Grants can be used for acquiring computer hardware or software, for staff development, or for special research projects for staff members and students. The grant is administered under the supervision of the winning teacher.

This National Science Foundation awards program, designed to improve the image and status of mathematics and science teaching, was established in 1983.

Posted June 24, 2000