Nation honors Indiana math, science teachers

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:
Thursday, May 8, 2008
Media Contacts:
Jason Bearce, 317.232.6618, jbearce@doe.in.gov
Jennifer Hicks, 317-232-9185, jhicks@doe.in.gov

Two Indiana teachers have new titles: 2007 Presidential Award for Excellence in Mathematics and Science Teaching winners. Letitia McCallister, Mathematics Department Chairperson at Hamilton Southeastern High School, won the mathematics award and Deborah Teuscher, District Science Coach at MSD Pike Township, won the science award.

“These teachers exemplify what is takes to be great instructional leaders, and I am very proud to have them represent Indiana,” said Dr. Suellen Reed, State Superintendent of Public Instruction.

The Presidential Awards for Excellence in Mathematics and Science Teaching (PAEMST) are the nation's highest honors for teachers of mathematics and science. The awards recognize highly qualified K-12 teachers for their contributions in the classroom and to their profession.

Each PAEMST winner receives a $10,000 award from the National Science Foundation, gifts from other donors and opportunities to participate in professional development programs during the week-long awards ceremony.

Since 1983, more than 3,700 outstanding teachers have been recognized for their contributions to mathematics and science education. In addition to recognizing outstanding teaching in mathematics or science, the program allows teachers to build lasting partnerships with colleagues across the nation. This growing network of award-winning teachers serves as a vital resource for improving science, technology, engineering, and mathematics education and keeping America globally competitive.

Media may contact Letitia McCallister at (765) 778-3123 and Deborah Teuscher at (317) 875-5075. For more information on the PAEMST, go online to www.paemst.org.

Indiana winners:

Letitia McCallister, 765-778-3123 (Hamilton Southeastern High School)
Deborah Teuscher, 317-875-5075 (MSD Pike Township)