MCAS Teacher Named Indiana Finalist for Presidential Award for Excellence in Math & Science Teaching

Amy-HamannBarker Middle School teacher Amy Hamann has been selected as an Indiana State Finalist for the Presidential Award for Excellence in Mathematics and Science Teaching (PAEMST).

Hamann is among only nine teachers in Indiana, five science and four math, to receive the honor. The nine finalists were chosen by a committee of prominent mathematicians, scientists, and educators, based on a comprehensive application that included a written narrative, a number of supporting materials, and a video of a classroom lesson. They will be recognized at a luncheon held in their honor this fall.

According to the PAEMST, award finalists demonstrate a significant commitment to professional development, incorporate innovative approaches to their classroom teaching, and are likely to use computers and other technologies in their classrooms.

As a state finalist, Hamann will now be considered for a Presidential Award for Excellence in Math and Science Teaching, the nation’s highest honor for U.S. math and science teachers, K-12. The awards program is administered by the National Science Foundation on behalf of the White House. One or two representatives from each state are selected annually to be honored as national winners; they receive a $10,000 award, a Presidential certificate, and a trip to Washington, DC for a series of recognition events and professional development activities.

Hamann was recognized by the MCAS Board of School Trustees at its July 9 meeting. “We are so proud of her accomplishment,” said MCAS Superintendent Dr. Barbara Eason-Watkins. “This is a well-deserved recognition for an outstanding educator.”

An eighth grade Science teacher, Hamann coordinates Barker Middle School’s annual STEM Fair, and she has traveled with students to Regional and State Science Fairs for several years. She has been instrumental in Barker’s transition to a STEM-themed school, and she has been a leader in MCAS’ Great Lakes Earth Partnership initiative. She holds bachelors’ and master’s degrees from Purdue University, and teaches a Science Methods course in the Education Department at Purdue University North Central.

More information about the PAEMST awards program is available at https://www.paemst.org/