GES Math Teacher Selected as a Presidential Award Finalist

March 17th, 2021

Catherine McNamara, a Gifted and Talented math teacher at Guilford Elementary School, has been named a Maryland finalist for the Presidential Awards for Excellence in Mathematics and Science Teaching (PAEMST) for grades K-6 by the Maryland State Department of Education. McNamara is just one of three finalists in mathematics in the state.

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 that have both an in-depth knowledge of their subjects and the ability to motivate and enable students to be successful in those areas.

The National Science Foundation (NSF) convenes a national selection committee composed of prominent mathematicians, scientists, mathematics/science education researchers, district-level personnel, and classroom teachers to review state finalists’ applications and make award recommendations to the White House Office of Science and Technology Policy. Up to two teachers—mathematics or science—from each state will receive the award.

Awardees receive a trip to Washington, D.C., where they attend a series of recognition events and professional development opportunities. They also receive a $10,000 award from NSF, a Presidential certificate, and join an elite cohort of teachers who can influence state and national STEM teaching.