Melanie Dimler wasn’t always a teacher, but now she’s a nationally-recognized educator.
Dimler, a physics teacher at Hewitt-Trussville High School, has been named a recipient of the prestigious Presidential Award for Excellence in Mathematics and Science Teaching (PAEMST) for 2023. This national honor recognizes her “innovative” teaching methods, dedication to STEM education, and commitment to inspiring the next generation of scientists and engineers.
“The Presidential Award means the world to me and confirms that I’m living my true calling and vocation,” Dimler said. “I did not start my career in education, but I knew deep down that being a STEM teacher would be the perfect career for me—and it is!”
Dimler began her professional journey with a degree in mechanical engineering from Louisiana State University (LSU) and a career in the energy sector. Despite her success, she always felt a pull toward education. After relocating to Alabama with her family, she obtained her teaching certification and joined Hewitt-Trussville High School in 2011. Dimler later earned a Master of Natural Sciences with a concentration in physics from LSU through the Louisiana Math and Science Teacher Institute (LA-MSTI).
Dimler’s is dedicated to her students and using innovative approaches in the classroom where she uses the Physics Modeling approach to engage students in hands-on learning.
“I love teaching physics because of the multitude of opportunities to engage students through hands-on lab activities,” she said.
In the release announcing the award, PAEMST said Dimler starts each new physics unit with an “opportunity for students to discover scientific and mathematical models for themselves through guided inquiry.”
Her commitment to the Hewitt-Trussville High School community goes beyond academics. Dimler focuses on building positive relationships with her students and guiding them toward college and career readiness. She sponsors the SWENext Girls in Engineering Club, co-sponsors the Science Olympiad team, and advises the school’s Chief Science Officers.
This year, Dimler’s impact was further recognized when the HTHS student body voted her as the teacher “Most Likely to Make a Scientific Discovery.”
“Being recognized for all of the time, passion, and energy I put into this truly valuable work is just icing on an already delicious cake,” she said.
The PAEMST, administered by the National Science Foundation, is the highest honor the U.S. government bestows on K-12 STEM educators. Dimler joins an elite group of teachers whose dedication and innovation continue to shape the future of science and technology education, the group said.