Anatomy and Biology teacher Kate Dean was awarded with The Presidential Award for Excellence in Mathematics and Science Teaching in August of 2016. The PAEMST is awarded by The National Science Foundation and The White House.

One math teacher and one science teacher is chosen from each state and though there were five state finalists for the state of Oregon, Dean won the award. Dean traveled down to Washington D.C from September 7-9 to receive her award.

Dean says, “ It was pretty intense. When I got there, we immediately started professional development meetings. We were also spoken to by STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics) education at the federal level.”

Dean participated in activities including contributing input on new innovative educated approaches, visiting the National Zoo where they were spoken to by the Smithsonian Institute Secretary of Energy and meeting with the Chief Technology Officer at the White House. A tour of the White House was given, however they did not get to meet the president due to North Korea’s nuclear testing.

Dean mentions, “On a professional level, I am connected with a small group of educators that will be called up for the rest of my career to give input on certain educational initiatives. It’s a great opportunity to network and make connections over states and seas.”