Wentzville Teacher Selected as Finalist for Presidential Teaching Award

(Following is a press release issued by the .)

Laura Parn, a teacher at Peine Ridge Elementary in the Wentzville School District, has been selected as a finalist for the 2012 Presidential Award for Excellence in Mathematics and Science Teaching (PAEMST).

The award is the highest recognition that a K-12 mathematics or science teacher may receive for outstanding teaching in the United States. "I am excited and deeply humbled to be selected,” said Parn, one of only six educators in Missouri to be chosen as a state finalist. “This is truly a shared accomplishment, and I am extremely proud of my students who worked so very hard throughout the course of the entire year and am also grateful for the support of my colleagues.” 

The awards are given to mathematics and science teachers from each of the 50 states and four U.S. jurisdictions. It recognizes those teachers who develop and implement a high-quality instructional program that enhances student learning.

“It is important to me to help my students develop a deep understanding of mathematics, a willingness to persevere when solving difficult problems, and the confidence to reason together and discuss their ideas. The application process proved to be a wonderful opportunity to model these behaviors in my own practice while working together with my students toward a common goal,” said Parn, who teaches fifth grade.

The White House will announce the winners next June. Those selected for this Presidential honor will receive a $10,000 award from the National Science Foundation to be used at their discretion. They also are invited to Washington, DC, for an awards ceremony, educational and events, and visits with members of Congress and the Administration.

The PAEMST award was established by Congress in 1983, and the program authorizes the President of the United States to bestow up to 108 awards each year. Awardees serve as models for their colleagues, inspiration to their communities, and leaders in the improvement of mathematics and science education. The National Science Foundation administers PAEMST on behalf of The White House Office of Science and Technology Policy.