South Dakota teachers selected as finalists for national science and math educator award

Three South Dakota science teachers and two math teachers have been selected as finalists for the Presidential Award for Excellence in Mathematics and Science Teaching (PAEMST). The PAEMST is a national award that recognizes outstanding K-12 mathematics or science teachers from each state. The five teachers were selected by a state selection committee, which chose the finalists from teachers from across the state who had been nominated.

The five finalists are as follows:
    • Ally Bowers, science teacher at Lyman High School in Presho;
    • Jackie Knox, science teacher at Highmore-Harrold High School in Highmore;
    • Tiffany Kroeger, science teacher at Montrose Middle and High School in Montrose;
    • Sheila McQuade, mathematics teacher at Bishop O’Gorman High School in Sioux Falls; and
    • Jeff Rademacher, mathematics teacher at Estelline High School in Estelline.

A national selection committee composed of prominent mathematicians, scientists, education researchers, and classroom teachers will select one math and one science teacher from each state to be awarded the PAEMST. Presidential awardees receive a citation signed by the President of the United States, a trip to Washington, D.C., to attend a series of recognition events and professional development opportunities, and a $10,000 award from the National Science Foundation.