MnSTA Newsletter

Presidential Award for Excellence

The Presidential Award for Excellence in Mathematics and Science Teaching is the highest distinction for teachers in these areas. It is awarded to two teachers from each state, generally one math and one science. The award includes professional activities in Washington DC., a reception with the president or his representative and a cash award of $10,000. The award is given to secondary teachers in odd numbered years and to elementary teachers in even numbered years. Up to five Minnesota science finalists are selected by a local committee and forwarded to the national organization for selection of the awardees. The White House will announce the Awardees. Here are our 2019 Minnesota Science Finalists:

Eric Friberg is a biology teacher at Henry Sibley High School in Mendota Heights. He is a graduate of the University of Minnesota with a Master’s degree in Science Education. A specialty he has developed is working with English language learners, which acquired through teaching experiences in Mexico and Thailand. He also has developed an elective in Marine Biology which includes SCUBA observations.

Cynthia Welch teaches life science, Earth science, and science research at Cloquet Middle School. She has a doctorate degree in Educational policy and administration from the University of Minnesota. Cynthia places emphasis in her instruction on independent scientific research. Many of her students compete in regional and state science fairs, and several have advanced to international competitions. In addition, she has been recognized for her work in promoting research activities with her Native American students.

Marta Stoeckel-Rogers teaches Physics, earth science and AVID at Tartan High School in Oakdale. She is a graduate of Valparaiso University with a Master’s degree from Boise State University. Marta is a leader in her district and has given many presentations, especially in the area of instructional technology. Her physics instruction is based on the modeling cycle, which begins with students generating conceptual and mathematical models of a phenomenon. They compare their models to develop a common model and then deploy the model on new problems.

Two Minnesota science teachers traveled to Washington DC this fall to receive the award.

David McGill received the Presidential Award for 2018. David is a science specialist teacher for grades 1 – 5 at Capitol Hill Gifted and Talented Magnet School in St. Paul. David is on the MnSTA board, which is a testament to the leadership opportunities that result of this award.

Stacey Bartlett received the Presidential Award for 2017. Stacey a biology teacher at Stillwater HighSchool.

Applications for Elementary teacher are available now through April. You are encouraged to nominate an excellent teacher, including yourself. It is a great professional experience working through the application. More information at https://www.paemst.org

Minnesota Department of Education Science Specialist John Olson is pictured with the three Presidential Award for Excellence finalists, Eric Friberg, Cynthia Welch and Marta Stoeckel- Rogers