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Teacher a state finalist for presidential award
November 3, 2008
Denise Thomas, a fifth grade teacher at Jarman Elementary School, 9015 E. 79th St., has been named one of two state finalists for the Presidential Award for Excellence in Teaching of Science. 
One of the highest honors a teacher can receive is being named a finalist for the Presidential Award for Excellence in Mathematics and Science Teaching.
“We could not be more proud of Denise Thomas,” Jarman Principal Patti Pitcock said. “Denise makes science relevant to the learners at Jarman each day. Going to the lab to conduct an experiment or observe and write is nothing new to her curriculum. Denise’s instructional excellence has been on the cutting edge for numerous years. We look forward to celebrating with her when she is recognized.”
Thomas was a finalist for the same award in 2006. Cedar Ridge third grade teacher Betsy Glad won the award that year in math.
“I have worked with Denise for more than 22 years and have found her to be very forward thinking in her approach to science education. She continues to grow professionally and never backs down from a challenge,” Pitcock said.
Enacted by Congress in 1983, the 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 jurisdictions are Washington, D.C.; Puerto Rico; Department of Defense Schools; and the U.S. territories as a group (American Samoa, Guam, the Commonwealth of the Northern Mariana Islands, and the U.S. Virgin Islands).The teachers are recognized for their contributions to teaching and learning and their ability to help students make progress in mathematics and science.
In addition to honoring individual achievement, the goal of the award program is to exemplify the highest standards of mathematics and science teaching. Awardees serve as models for their colleagues, inspiration to their communities, and leaders in the improvement of mathematics and science education.
Recipients of the award receive the following:
- A citation signed by the President of the United States.
- A paid trip for two to Washington, D.C., to attend a weeklong series of recognition events and professional development opportunities.
- Gifts from program sponsors from around the country.
- A $10,000 award from the National Science Foundation.
In addition to recognizing outstanding teaching in mathematics or science, the program provides teachers with an opportunity to build lasting partnerships with colleagues across the nation. This growing network of award-winning teachers serves as a vital resource for improving science, technology, engineering, and mathematics education and keeping America globally competitive.
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