Pine Ridge Elementary math teacher Stephanie Johnson receives prestigious Presidential Award for Excellence
(Update: Adding video from 5PM broadcast)
BEND, Ore. (KTVZ) – Stephanie Johnson, a first-grade math teacher at Bend’s Pine Ridge Elementary School, has just received the prestigious Presidential Award for Excellence in Mathematics and Science Teaching.
The award, administered by the National Science Foundation, recognizes outstanding teachers for their contributions to the teaching and learning of science, technology, engineering, and mathematics. Johnson will receive a certificate signed by the president and a $10,000 award, and is invited to Washington, D.C., for an awards ceremony.
Johnson has taught at Pine Ridge for 16 years. Her first six years were spent as a special education teacher, followed by 10 years as a first-grade teacher. In math, her goal is to create lifelong mathematical thinkers and foster the development of foundational skills for young mathematicians.
Johnson strives to strengthen students’ mathematics identity by emphasizing each student’s expertise in the subject and drawing upon their experiences and knowledge to connect mathematics to their community.
She also serves as a member of the Bend-La Pine Schools’ Mathematics Leadership Academy and facilitates professional development sessions on best practices in mathematics for teachers in the district.
“This award represents the undivided efforts of educators who work tirelessly to provide high-quality education for all students in mathematics,” Johnson said. “This process has offered me the opportunity to refine my practice, share my experiences with colleagues, and continue to grow as an educator. I hope to continue to inspire the mathematician inside of each of my students, so they see themselves as the problem-solvers of the future.”
Johnson has a B.Ed. and an M.Ed. from the University of Oregon. She is a certified elementary school teacher with an endorsement in special education.
President Biden announced this week that 336 teachers and mentors from around the nation were recipients of the Presidential Awards for Excellence in Mathematics and Science Teaching and the Presidential Awards for Excellence in Science, Mathematics, and Engineering Mentoring.
Established in 1983, it's the highest award K-12 math and science teachers can receive from the federal government.
Nominees complete a rigorous application process to demonstrate deep content knowledge and an ability to adapt to a broad range of learners and teaching environments.
A panel of distinguished mathematicians, scientists, and educators at the state and national levels assess nominations before recommending awardees to the White House Office of Science and Technology Policy. Teachers are selected based on their distinction in the classroom and dedication to improving STEM education.