News Release
| For Immediate Release: | June 28, 2018 |
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| Contact: | Charles B. Pyle, Director of Communications, 804-371-2420 Julie C. Grimes, Communications Manager, 804-225-2543 |
Two Virginia Teachers Earn Presidential Mathematics & Science Teaching Awards
Two Virginia teachers are among 104 educators who were recognized this week by the White House and the National Science Foundation with the Presidential Award for Excellence in Mathematics and Science Teaching. 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.
Kathleen O'Dell
, who teaches sixth-grade and advanced mathematics at Christiansburg Middle in Montgomery County, received the presidential award for K-6 mathematics. Julia Young, who teaches fifth-grade science and mathematics at E.W. Chittum Elementary in Chesapeake, received the presidential award for K-6 science.
“Teachers like Kathleen and Julia are helping Virginia schools lead the way in innovative instruction that prepares students for new challenges and opportunities in science, technology, engineering and mathematics,” Superintendent of Public Instruction James Lane said. “Please join me in congratulating them on these well-deserved recognitions.”
O’Dell and Young were among the Virginia state finalists nominated for the awards in 2016 by review committees convened by the Virginia Department of Education. At the time, Young was a science teacher at Deep Creek Elementary in Chesapeake.
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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