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President Clinton Honors Nations' Outstanding Mathematics and Science Teachers

President Clinton has named 214 teachers to receive the Presidential Award for Excellence in Mathematics and Science Teaching (PAEMST), the nation's highest honor for mathematics and science teaching in elementary and secondary schools.

"The degree to which our nation prospers in the 21st century will depend on our abilities to develop scientific and technical talent in our youth," President Clinton said. "These outstanding math and science teachers serve as role models for their colleagues, and help to shape our society, strengthen our educational system and advance our national interests. We honor them for their dedication to leading the fight for the future of America's children by providing them with the tools they need to make the most of their lives."

Teachers nominated for this award go through a rigorous review process ending with White House approval from the president and the Assistant to the President for Science and Technology, Dr. John H. Gibbons. Awardees are selected on the basis of the excellence of their teaching performance, leadership abilities, continuing education activities and dedication as teachers.

The award winners will be given a certificate and their schools will receive a National Science Foundation (NSF) grant of $7,500 to be used under the direction of the awardee over a three-year period. Awardees will also be honored during an event in Washington, D.C., later this year.

Established in 1983 by the White House and administered by NSF, this award is given to up to 216 elementary and secondary school teachers representing the 50 states, the District of Columbia, Puerto Rico, U.S. Territories and the U.S. Department of Defense school system.

See also: Statement by NSF Director Neal Lane.