Presidential Award for Excellence Honors Retired Osage Teacher Lori Randall and 5 Others
DES MOINES – In an exciting announcement, the Iowa Department of Education has revealed the names of six outstanding Iowa educators who have been recognized with the prestigious Presidential Awards for Excellence in Mathematics and Science Teaching (PAEMST). This award stands as the highest honor bestowed upon K-12 teachers in the fields of science, technology, engineering, mathematics, and computer science across the United States.
Iowa’s PAEMST Awardees
Among the esteemed group of awardees are Stephanie Steines from Decorah High School, Angela Schneden from Prairie Trail Elementary School, Allison McPherren from Southeast Polk High School, Matthew Hansen from MMCRU High School, and Laura McCreery from Davenport North High School. However, stealing the spotlight is the recently retired Lori Randall from Lincoln Elementary School in the Osage Community School District.
Recognition and Celebrations
These teachers have been hailed as trailblazers in the realm of science and mathematics education in Iowa, setting an example of excellence for their peers, students, and local communities. Tina Wahlert, the division administrator of PK-12 learning at the Department, commended the awardees for their stellar contributions to Iowa’s education landscape, ensuring that students receive top-notch instruction.
A Personal Touch
Growing up, I had a math teacher who inspired me to pursue a career in STEM fields. Their dedication and passion for teaching left a lasting impact on me, shaping my academic journey. Teachers like Lori Randall, who have dedicated decades to nurturing young minds and fostering a love for subjects like computer science, play a crucial role in shaping future generations of innovators and problem-solvers. It is heartwarming to see educators like her being recognized for their unwavering commitment and dedication to their craft.
The Impact of PAEMST
Each PAEMST recipient not only receives a $10,000 award sponsored by the National Science Foundation but also gets the opportunity to attend recognition events and professional development activities in Washington, D.C. The praise and acknowledgment from the highest levels of the government, including a signed certificate from the President of the United States, serve as a testament to the exceptional work these teachers put in day in and day out.
In conclusion, the PAEMST awards highlight the invaluable contributions of educators like Lori Randall and her fellow awardees, showcasing their dedication to fostering a passion for STEM subjects among students. The ripple effect of their influence extends far beyond the classroom, shaping the future of our society through the power of education.
