TDOE Announces Presidential Teaching Award State Finalists

National Awards Recognize Highest STEM Educators Across Country 

Nashville, TN — Today, the Tennessee Department of Education announced four state finalists for the Presidential Awards for Excellence in Math and Science Teaching (PAEMST). The PAEMST award is the nation’s highest honor for U.S. K–12 science, technology, engineering, mathematics, and/or computer science teachers. 

The PAEMST awardees are recognized for their contributions to teaching and learning, along with their ability to help students excel in science, technology, engineering, mathematics, and/or computer science. In addition to honoring individual achievement, the award program's goal is to showcase the highest standards of STEM teaching.

“These finalists embody the most incredible STEM teachers across the state and the nation," said Lizzette Reynolds, Commissioner of Education. "I commend these educators for their valuable commitment to providing exceptional math and science learning and teaching to prepare students for future success.”

The 2024-25 Tennessee PAEMST finalists are:

Each state finalist will move on to national selection, where a committee of prominent mathematicians, scientists, mathematics/science education researchers, district level personnel, and classroom teachers will identify up to two teachers—one in mathematics and one in science—from each state. Teachers selected as PAEMST awardees will receive a trip to Washington, D.C., where they will attend a series of recognition events and professional development opportunities. They also will receive a $10,000 award, a Presidential certificate, and join an elite cohort of award-winning teachers who can influence state and national STEM teaching.

The awards program is administered by the National Science Foundation (NSF) on behalf of the White House Office of Science and Technology Policy. For more information about the Presidential Awards for Excellence in Math and Science Teaching, or to make a nomination for an outstanding STEM educator, please visit the PAEMST website.

For Tennessee Department of Education media inquiries, contact Edu.MediaInquiries@tn.gov.

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