The Utah State Board of Education is pleased to announce the names of the five 2023 Utah finalists for the Presidential Award for Excellence in Mathematics and Science Teaching.
Three finalists were selected for secondary mathematics teaching:
- Karen Feld, American Fork Junior High School, Alpine School District
- Todd Vawdrey, West High School, Salt Lake City School District
- Melissa Brown, Riverton High School, Jordan School District
Two finalists were selected for secondary science teaching:
- JoAnne Brown, Olympus Junior High School, Granite School District
- Wesley Morgan, Springville High School, Nebo School District
The Presidential Award for Excellence in Mathematics and Science Teaching (PAEMST) is the highest honor bestowed by the United States government for K-12 science, technology, engineering, mathematics, and/or computer science teaching. Finalists serve as models for their colleagues, inspiration to their communities, and leaders in the improvement of STEM education.
2023 PAEMST finalist applications will now be reviewed by a national selection committee. The White House will announce the winners later this year. From Utah’s five finalists, two will be chosen as the 2023 Utah PAEMST awardees. Utah’s PAEMST awardees will receive a certificate signed by the President of the United States, a paid trip for two to Washington D.C. to attend a series of recognition events, and a $10,000 award from the National Science Foundation.
