Math coach a finalist for PAEMST

Trussville City Schools math coach Jana Walls, a finalist for the 2016 Presidential Awards for Excellence in Mathematics and Science Teaching, PAEMST was honored March 9 at a luncheon at the RSA Plaza Terrace in Montgomery. The luncheon, sponsored by the Alabama State Department of Education, honored the five elementary finalists and the three elementary science finalists. 

PAEMST is the highest recognition that a kindergarten through 12th-grade mathematics or science teacher may receive for outstanding teaching in the United States. Established by Congress in 1983, the PAEMST program authorizes the president of the United States to bestow up to 108 awards each year. 

Awards are given to mathematics and science teachers from each state, the District of Columbia, the commonwealth of Puerto Rico, the Department of Defense Education Activity schools and the U.S. territories as a group. 

Awardees serve as models for their colleagues, inspiration to their communities and leaders in the improvement of mathematics and science education. Awards alternate each year between elementary and secondary teachers.

Presidential awardees receive a certificate signed by the president of the United States, 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.

– Submitted by Trussville City Schools.