For Immediate Release: February 15, 2022
Contact: Charles Pyle (804) 371-2420
RICHMOND — Superintendent of Public Instruction Jillian Balow today congratulated two Virginia teachers who were recognized this month by the White House and the National Science Foundation with the Presidential Award for Excellence in Mathematics and Science Teaching.
Tracey Curcio, a mathematics specialist at Elizabeth Scott Elementary in Chesterfield County, received the presidential award for K-6 mathematics. Cathleen Drake-McGarvey, a fifth-grade science teacher at Stony Mill Elementary in Pittsylvania County, received the presidential award for K-6 science.
The award — regarded as the nation’s top honor for mathematics and science teachers — honors teachers who develop and implement high-quality instructional programs that improve student learning. Curcio and Drake-McGarvey are among 102 teachers receiving PAEMST awards this year.
“I look forward to congratulating Tracey and Cathleen personally in June when they’re in Richmond to be recognized by the state Board of Education,” Balow said. “And I look forward to the opportunity to visit their schools and see how they engage young minds in science and mathematics.”
Curcio and Drake-McGarvey were among the Virginia state finalists nominated for the awards by review committees convened by the Virginia Department of Education.
The application process requires nominees to provide evidence of deep content knowledge and exemplary pedagogical skills and focuses on the following five dimensions of teaching:
- Mastery of mathematics or science content appropriate for the grade level taught;
- Use of instructional methods and strategies that are appropriate for students in the class and support student learning;
- Effective use of assessments to evaluate, monitor and improve student learning;
- Reflective practice and life-long learning to improve teaching and student learning; and
- Leadership in education outside the classroom.
Both teachers will each receive a $10,000 unrestricted award from the National Science Foundation, a presidential certificate, and a trip to the nation’s capital for a series of recognition events and professional development activities.
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