Sageville Elementary School Math Teacher Ann Johnson was among 213 mathematics and science teachers honored by President Obama as recipients of the prestigious Presidential Award for Excellence in Mathematics and Science Teaching. These awardees represent all 50 states, the District of Columbia, Puerto Rico, U.S. Territories, and the Department of Defense Education Activity schools. Johnson, and the other educators honored, will receive their awards at a ceremony in Washington, DC on September 8.
The Presidential Award for Excellence in Mathematics and Science Teaching is awarded to outstanding K-12 science and mathematics teachers from across the country. The winners are selected by a panel of distinguished scientists, mathematicians, and educators following an initial selection process at the state level. Each nomination year of the award alternates between teachers in the kindergarten through 6th grade level, and those teaching 7th through 12th grades. The cohort of awardees named today represent two nomination years, one of teachers in kindergarten through 6th grade classrooms and the other in 7th through 12th grade classrooms.
Winners of this Presidential honor receive a $10,000 award from the National Science Foundation to be used at their discretion, and are invited to Washington, DC, for an awards ceremony, as well educational and celebratory events, and visits with members of the Administration.
“The Presidential Award symbolizes the passion, dedication, and collaboration of the teaching profession,” said Johnson. “To receive this honor emphasizes the important role teachers play in developing today’s students and tomorrow’s leaders. Being recognized with this award illustrates the importance of teachers being lifelong learners in education. I have been lucky enough to work with many teachers, administrators, parents, and students who inspire and motivate me to continue learning.”
Johnson holds a bachelor of arts degree from the University of Iowa in elementary education and a master of arts degree in literacy from Northeastern Illinois University.
“The recipients of this award are integral to ensuring our students are equipped with critical thinking and problem-solving skills that are vital to our Nation’s success,” President Obama said. “As the United States continues to lead the way in the innovation that is shaping our future, these excellent teachers are preparing students from all corners of the country with the science, technology, engineering, and mathematics skills that help keep us on the cutting-edge.”
Other Iowa recipients of this award include Joshua Steenhoek, a science teacher at Jefferson Intermediate School in the Pella Community School District; Lynnetta Bleeker, a life sciences teacher at Parkview Middle School in the Ankeny Community School District; and Richard Brooks, a math teacher at Johnston High School in the Johnston Community School District.