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Presidential Awards for Excellence in Mathematics and Science Teaching

PAEMST National Awardees

Congratulations to the 2021, 2022, and 2023 PAEMST Awardees!

Please visit the national PAEMST website for the official announcement.

The Presidential Awards for Excellence in Mathematics and Science Teaching (PAEMST) Program was established in 1983 by The White House and is sponsored by the National Science Foundation (NSF). Each year the President of the United States recognizes outstanding teachers in mathematics and science (including computer science) from across the Nation at the Kindergarten through 6th grade or 7th through 12th grade levels and bestows upon them the Presidential Awards for Excellence in Mathematics and Science Teaching (PAEMST).

New York State is looking for nominations of outstanding mathematics and science teachers who spark students’ imaginations in STEM education through innovative teaching and learning.

The PAEMST is the highest honor in the Nation that teachers of mathematics and science (including computer science) may receive for outstanding teaching and leadership in their respective fields. These teachers serve as models for colleagues and are leaders in the improvement of science and mathematics education.

Receiving a Presidential Award can change a teacher’s life. In addition to receiving the honor of a lifetime, each Presidential Awardee receives:

  • A certificate signed by the President of the United States
  • A $10,000 award from the National Science Foundation
  • An all-expenses paid trip to a recognition event, which includes an award ceremony and opportunities to meet with policymakers in a series of professional development activities
  • Access to the alumni network and the opportunity to build lasting partnerships with colleagues across the nation

Annually, New York State can recognize up to three Mathematics finalists and three Science finalists. The New York State PAEMST finalists’ applications are forwarded to a PAEMST Review and Selection Committee at the National level. Of the State finalists in Mathematics and Science, up to two finalists in mathematics or science from each state will be recognized at the National level.

The 2024-2025 application cycle is now open until February 6, 2025.

For more information about the PAEMST (2024-2025) nomination and application process or about the PAEMST National Awardees, please visit the national PAEMST website or e-mail:

Congratulations to the following New York State Finalists for the 2024 Presidential Awards for Excellence in Math and Science Teaching:

  • Susan Murray, a 4th grade teacher, PEARLS Hawthorne School, Yonkers Public Schools
  • Caitlin Giard, a math enrichment specialist for grades 1-2 and a gifted education teacher for grades 3-6, Jackson Avenue School, Mineola Public School

For information on past New York State PAEMST awardees, please visit the national PAEMST website.

Disclaimer: While the New York State Education Department is responsible for coordinating the PAEMST application process at the state level, we make no guarantees regarding the receipt of the awards at the National level, including receipt of the items identified above.