Science teacher Allison McPherren at Southeast Polk High School has received the Presidential Award for Excellence in Mathematics and Science Teaching (PAEMST).
Established in 1983, The PAEMST program, administered by the National Science Foundation (NSF) on behalf of the White House Office of Science and Technology Policy, recognized over 300 outstanding teachers for their contributions to the teaching and learning of science, technology, engineering, and mathematics this year. The award is the highest recognition a kindergarten through 12th-grade science, technology, engineering, or mathematics teacher may receive for outstanding teaching in the United States.
Mrs. McPherren shared, “Science teaching is hard work. To create an experience that engages all students, an enormous amount of planning goes on behind the scenes. Sometimes, the best-laid plans go awry, but it is worth the work and chaos when students get to do science. This award is a testament to the fact that student-driven curiosity, questioning, and exploration works. Students can figure things out when they are in charge of their own learning and support each other. All students can experience success.”
McPherren, a SEP High School teacher since 2017, as one of the nominees, completed a rigorous application process to demonstrate deep content knowledge and an ability to adapt to a broad range of learners and teaching environments.
A panel of distinguished mathematicians, scientists, and educators at the state and national levels assess nominations before recommending awardees to the White House Office of Science and Technology Policy. Teachers are selected based on their distraction in the classroom and dedication to improving STEM education.
Each awardee will receive a certificate signed by President Biden and a $10,000 award from NSF. Awardees will travel to Washington, D.C., for an awards ceremony at a future date.
Awardees also join an active network of outstanding educators from throughout the nation. Since 1983, more than 5,500 teachers have been recognized for their contributions to the classroom and their profession. Awardees reflect the expertise and dedication of the Nation’s teaching corps and demonstrate the positive impact of excellent teachers on student achievement. McPherren is one of six awardees from the state of Iowa this year and the first in Southeast Polk’s history.
Dr. Jo Ellen Latham, Associate Superintendent of Teaching and Learning shared, “Southeast Polk places a high priority on the teaching of science, and Allison exemplifies the qualities this award represents, including a deep knowledge of science, and the ability to make a positive impact on the students she serves. She is a deserving recipient of this top honor, and we are proud to have her at Southeast Polk. “
For more about how Mrs. McPherren won this award, click here.
Congratulations Mrs. McPherren!
To learn more about the PAEMST program, please click here.
