Newman Teacher Finalist for National Award

Sixth grade science teacher Lisa Swenson was named a Louisiana finalist in the Presidential Awards for Excellence in Mathematics and Science Teaching (PAEMST). The PAEMST awards are among the nation’s highest awards for teachers of mathematics and science. The National Science foundation administers the awards to K-12 teachers for excellence in teaching in the fields of science and mathematics. Since its establishment in 1983, then award has been presented to more than 4,700 teachers.

Swenson joined finalists from around the state at the Governor’s Mansion on September 23. Accompanied by Newman colleagues Associate Head of School Kim Wargo and Head of Middle School Elizabeth Ecker, she was honored at a special luncheon attended by several members of the Louisiana Board of Education and First Lady Donna Hutto Edwards.

 

Award winners receive a certificate signed by the President, a paid trip to Washington, D.C. to attend awards events and Professional Development opportunities, and a $10,000 award from the National Science Foundation. Should she receive the award, Swenson will be the second honoree from Newman; Lower School Science Chair Jennifer Williams received the Louisiana PAEMST in 2006.