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Mayfield Woods MS Math Teacher Selected as a Presidential Award Finalist

April 8th, 2024

Norah MacPhee outside Mayfield Woods Middle School.

Mayfield Woods Middle School (MWMS) mathematics teacher Norah Storey MacPhee has been selected as a finalist for the Presidential Awards in Mathematics and Science Teaching (PAEMST) for K-6th grade by the Maryland State Department of Education. MacPhee is one of six finalists in the state—and one of three in mathematics—who will compete at the national level.

The PAEMST are the highest honors bestowed by the United States government for K-12 science, technology, engineering, mathematics, and/or computer science teaching. The awards recognize teachers who have both an in-depth knowledge of their subjects and the ability to motivate and enable students to be successful in those areas.

Mayfield Woods MS teacher Norah MacPhee teaching a class.

“We are all excited for Ms. MacPhee on her well-deserved nomination and on being selected as a PAEMST finalist,” says MWMS Principal David Strothers. “Her dedication, passion, and innovative approach to teaching have undoubtedly inspired countless students and colleagues alike. May this recognition serve as a testament to the exceptional contributions she makes to her students, her colleagues, and mathematics education!”

“Norah MacPhee’s comprehensive approach to teaching mathematics, characterized by deep content knowledge, effective pedagogy, actionable assessment, reflective practice, and leadership, makes her an ideal candidate for this prestigious award,” adds Jon Wray, HCPSS Coordinator of Secondary Mathematics. “Recognizing her with this honor not only celebrates her achievements, but also signals the important role that HCPSS’s dedicated and innovative math educators play in shaping the future of mathematics teaching and learning.”

Mayfield Woods MS teacher Norah MacPhee stands over two students who are working on an assignment.

The six Maryland finalists will be reviewed by a national committee convened by the National Science Foundation. Composed of prominent mathematicians, scientists, mathematics/science education researchers, district-level personnel, and classroom teachers, the committee recommends up to two teachers (in mathematics or science) from each state to receive the PAEMST award.

PAEMST awardees receive a trip to Washington, D.C., where they attend a series of professional development opportunities and recognition events. They also receive a monetary award from the NSF, a Presidential certificate, and join an elite cohort of award-winning teachers who can influence state and national STEM teaching.