Math, Science Teachers Named PAEMST Finalists

Six Mississippi teachers were named 2021 state-level finalists for the Presidential Awards for Excellence in Mathematics and Science Teaching (PAEMST). The PAEMST program is the nation’s highest honor for teachers of mathematics and science, including computer science.

The six teachers are: Dr. Trisha Gilbreath, grades 10-12 mathematics teacher, Northwest Rankin High School (Rankin County School District); Jaqueline Lewis, grade 9 mathematics teacher and grades 11-12 computer science teacher, Enterprise High School (Enterprise School District); Treasure Lynch, grade 10 mathematics teacher, Gulfport High School (Gulfport School District); Kenneth Peagler, high school science teacher, Brandon High School (Rankin County School District); Christina Walters, grades 10-12 science teacher, South Jones High School (Jones County School District); and Ashley Elizabeth Webb, grades 10-12 science teacher, DeSoto Central High School (DeSoto County Schools)

Awardees serve as models for their colleagues, inspiration to their communities and leaders in the improvement of mathematics and science education.

“Mississippi’s PAEMST state-level finalists are committed to excellence and are leaders among their colleagues,” said Dr. Carey Wright, the state superintendent of education. “I congratulate them as they vie for the highest honor in their profession.”

The PAEMST program, established in 1983 by the White House, allows each state to select up to three state finalists in mathematics and up to three state finalists in science. One of the state finalists in each content area may be selected as the Presidential Awardee for the state, which is the highest recognition that a kindergarten through 12th grade mathematics or science teacher may receive for outstanding teaching in the United States.

National winners are announced approximately a year after state-level finalists are identified.