December 31, 2007
Dear Elementary School Principals:
NOMINATIONS FOR THE PRESIDENTIAL AWARD FOR EXCELLENCE IN
MATHEMATICS AND SCIENCE TEACHING
The Presidential Award for Excellence in Mathematics and Science Teaching (PAEMST) is the highest award that a science or mathematics teacher can receive. I am writing to encourage you to nominate exemplary teaching professionals for this singular recognition.
Coordinated by the National Science Foundation, the PAEMST program honors outstanding science and mathematics teachers from every state. Each year, California can recommend two mathematics teachers and two science teachers. Since the program’s beginning 25 years ago, 76 California teachers have been named Presidential Award recipients. Recipients are honored at the White House and receive a $10,000 award, plus various prizes from sponsors. The 2008 Award Cycle will recognize outstanding science and mathematics teachers who currently teach at least half-time in grades kindergarten through six.
This year, the nomination process will use the on-line PAEMST Web-based Nomination Form. Nominations will be accepted through March 1, 2008. The process takes just a few minutes to complete the fill-in form. The form is available on the PAEMST Web page at:
http://www.paemst.org/controllers/nomination.cfc?method=nominate
Teachers may be nominated by either a principal or a teaching peer. Once nominated, candidates must complete an application packet that includes an extensive written response and a 45-minute, unedited video of a classroom lesson. The application packet is due May 1, 2008. California will convene a team of expert reviewers to evaluate the experience and expertise of the individual candidates.
If you have any questions regarding this subject, please contact Jim Miller, Consultant, Awards Unit, at 916-319-0866 or by e-mail at paemst@cde.ca.gov.
Sincerely
William L. Padia, Deputy Superintendent
Assessment and Accountability Branch
WP:jm
1430 N Street
Sacramento, CA 95814