Six State Finalists Named For Presidential Teaching Awards

Six state educators will vie for a Presidential Award for Excellence in Mathematics and Science Teaching as Wisconsin’s finalists in the national recognition program.

“You represent the best of a cadre of outstanding mathematics and science teachers in Wisconsin who applied for the Presidential Teaching Awards program,” said State Superintendent Elizabeth Burmaster in congratulating the finalists. “Quality educators in the classroom are central to student academic achievement and closing the achievement gap. I commend you for sharing your love of mathematics and science with our students through your devotion to teaching.”

The Wisconsin mathematics finalists are Wanda Bussey, Rufus King High School, Milwaukee; Wendy Meyer of Milton, Edgerton High School; and Lorna Vazquez of Neillsville, Granton High School. Science finalists are Mary Fassbender, Forest Park Middle School, Franklin; Jeanine Gelhaus, Medford Middle School; and Marian Schraufnagel of Waterford, Mukwonago High School. The six were among those nominated for the Presidential Teaching Awards program last school year by principals, teachers, students, parents, or members of the community.

Each nominee submitted a video of her classroom teaching; a written description of her instructional program, content knowledge, use of assessments, and success in improving student achievement; sample student work; and a resume of their background and experience. A state selection committee scored applications using national criteria.

Wisconsin’s six secondary-level finalists will have their applications forwarded to the national level and receive National Science Foundation State Certificates for Excellence in Teaching Mathematics and Science at an awards program and reception to be held later this year.

A national committee, reporting to the National Science Foundation, will judge applications from state-level finalists. The panel may select one teacher of mathematics and one of science to receive Presidential Awards from the 50 states, District of Columbia, Puerto Rico, Department of Defense schools, and U.S. territories. Up to 108 recipients may be recognized in Washington, D.C., next spring.

In addition to visiting the nation’s capital, each Presidential Teaching Award recipient will receive $10,000, attend professional development sessions, and be honored in a variety of ceremonies over the course of the recognition week.

Elementary-level teachers will be recognized in 2008-09 and nominations can be made until March 1.

Presidential Awards of Excellence for Mathematics and Science Teaching

Posted January 18, 2008