6 First State teachers win Presidential math/science teaching award

Six Delaware teachers have won the 2021 – 2023 Presidential Awards for Excellence in Mathematics and Science Teaching (PAEMST).

It’s the highest recognition that a kindergarten through 12th grade science, technology, engineering, or mathematics teacher may receive for outstanding teaching in the United States. 

Here are the First State teachers who won:

2021

• Michael Reitemeyer – Math teacher at Mount Pleasant High School in the Brandywine School District
• Brian Heeney – Science teacher at Delcastle Technical High School in the New Castle County Vocational Technical School District

2022

• Jason Orlen – Math teacher at East Millsboro Elementary School in the Indian River School District
• Maria Cobb – Science teacher at Mount Pleasant Elementary School in the Brandywine School District

2023

• Brittney Stewart – Math teacher at Caesar Rodney High School in the Caesar Rodney School District
• Michael Doody – Former science teacher at William Penn High School in the Colonial School District (science)

“This is one of the highest recognitions a teacher can receive. Congratulations to these educators whose students know first-hand the power of great instruction,” Secretary of Education Mark Holodick said. “These teachers make science, technology, engineering and mathematics engaging and relevant to our students, and I am proud they are representing Delaware.”

Up to 112 teachers are recognized each year.

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Presidential Awardees receive a certificate signed by the president. a trip to Washington D.C. to attend a series of recognition events and professional development opportunities, and a $10,000 award from the National Science Foundation. 

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 in the classroom and to their profession. 

Awardees reflect the expertise and dedication of the nation’s teaching corps, and they demonstrate the positive impact of excellent teachers on student achievement.

The goal of the PAEMST program is to exemplify the highest standards of mathematics and science teaching in addition to honoring individual achievement. 

The award alternates between teachers of kindergarten through 6th grade and those teaching 7th through 12th grades.  

Every year each state selects up to three mathematics teachers and three science teachers as state finalists, and a national selection committee reviews state finalist applications and selects one awardee in each content area for every state. 

Teachers are recognized for their contributions to teaching and learning and their ability to help students make progress in mathematics and science.