Two county elementary school teachers are among the six state finalists for the Presidential Awards for Excellence in Mathematics and Science Teaching, the highest recognition a K-12 science, technology, engineering, mathematics, and/or computer science teacher may receive for outstanding teaching.
Four Seasons Elementary School teacher Christine Baker and Hillsmere Elementary School teacher Jessica Owens have been named finalists by the Maryland State Department of Education. Baker is among three math finalists and Owens is one of three science finalists. No other Maryland School system has more than one finalist.
The award recognizes teachers who have both deep content knowledge of the subjects they teach and the ability to motivate and enable students to be successful in those areas, MSDE said in announcing the finalists. State finalists represent the most outstanding teachers Maryland has to offer and serve as both a model and an inspiration to students and fellow teachers.
“This is another example of the amazing talent, commitment, and passion that exists in classrooms across our county,” Superintendent of Schools Dr. Mark Bedell said. “These two educators are among the state’s best, and I congratulate and thank them for the positive impacts they are having on the lives of students.”
Baker has taught in Anne Arundel County Schools since 2004. She has been at Four Seasons Elementary School since 2013 and previously taught at Ridgeway, Nantucket, and Severna Park elementary schools. At Four Seasons, she teaches fourth-grade math and science and is the school’s Math Lead Teacher. She also serves on the school’s Leadership and School Improvement teams.
“I am humbled by this recognition and share it with each student that passes through my class,” Baker said. “Many of them have math stories full of anxiety and defeatism. My mission is to bring fun and joy to math by making it accessible and meaningful to all students using authentic experiences, differentiated instruction, hands-on activities, and laughter.”
Owens has been a Hillsmere Elementary School teacher since 2018 and has taught the Triple E (Enhancing Elementary Excellence) curriculum at the school since that time. She previously taught in Baltimore County Public Schools.
“It is a tremendous honor to stand as a finalist for the Presidential Awards for Excellence in Mathematics and Science Teaching, proudly representing Anne Arundel County, Hillsmere Elementary, and the Triple E program,” she said. “I am deeply grateful for the opportunity to share my passion for STEM with my students daily. Above all, I am dedicated to fostering an inclusive environment where every student feels empowered and welcomed, reinforcing the belief that STEM is for all.”
Other finalists announced by MSDE are:
- Math: Lisa Herckner, Grasonville Elementary School (Queen Anne’s County) and Norah Macphee, Mayfield Woods Middle School (Howard County).
- Science: Kimberlie Grabenstein, Williamsport Elementary School (Washington County) and Kristina Powell, Maiden Choice School (Baltimore County).
“These finalists represent excellence in teaching and embody the ideals of innovation, dedication, and excellence,” Interim State Superintendent of Schools Dr. Carey M. Wright said. “Their passion for STEAM education is truly inspiring, and I congratulate them on this well-deserved honor.”
Each year, a national committee of prominent mathematicians, scientists, mathematics/science education researchers, district level personnel, and classroom teachers recommends up to 108 teachers to receive PAEMST awards. Up to two teachers – mathematics or science – from each state receive the award. Teachers who are selected as PAEMST awardees receive a trip to Washington, D.C., where they attend a series of recognition events and professional development opportunities. They also receive a $10,000 award from the National Science Foundation (NSF), a Presidential certificate, and join an elite cohort of award-winning teachers who can influence state and national STEM teaching.
Glen Burnie Park Elementary School math teacher Joanie Gulden was a national winner in 2022. For more information on PAEMST, click here.