HONOLULU — Six Hawaiian public school educators have received the Presidential Awards for Excellence in Mathematics and Science Teaching (PAEMST), the nation’s highest honor for a science, technology, engineering, of mathematics and/or computer science can receive for exceptional teaching. In the United States, President Joe Biden announced this week.
The Hawaiian recipients are:
- Whitney Aragaki, Waiakea High School
- Jessica Barbera, Thomas Jefferson Elementary School
- Michael Ida, Kalani High School
- Gregory Kent, Kailua Elementary School
- Karleen Lynch, Pearl City High School
- Sarah Milianta-Laffin, ‘Ilima Middle School
Karleen Lynch and Sarah Milianta-Laffi were part of the 2023 cohort of winners; Jessica Barbera and Gregory Kent were among the 2022 winners; and Whitney Aragaki and Michael Ida were part of the 2021 cohort. The winners were all announced collectively on Monday by the White House.
They are among 336 teachers and mentors from across the country who have been nominated by their principals, teachers, parents, students or members of the general public for serving as role models to their colleagues, inspiration to their communities and leaders in the improving STEM education. .
“On behalf of the entire Hawaii State Department of Education, I extend my sincere congratulations to our six extraordinary educators for receiving this distinguished national honor,” said Superintendent Keith Hayashi. “Their commitment to fostering innovation and excellence in STEM education inspires not only their students, but also their peers and communities across Hawai‘i.” This recognition demonstrates their commitment to preparing our students for a future of unlimited possibilities.
Honorees receive a certificate signed by President Joe Biden, a trip to Washington, D.C., to attend a series of recognition events and professional development opportunities, and a $10,000 National Science Award Foundation.
Recipients also join an active network of exceptional educators from across the country. Since 1983, more than 5,500 teachers have been recognized for their contributions in the classroom and to their profession. The honorees reflect the expertise and dedication of the nation’s teachers and demonstrate the positive impact of excellent teachers on student achievement.
The Presidential Awards for Excellence in Mathematics and Science Teaching were established by Congress in 1983 and annually recognize up to 110 teachers and mentors from all 50 states, Washington, D.C., Puerto Rico, schools Department of Defense and US Territories (American Samoa, Guam, Commonwealth of the Northern Mariana Islands and US Virgin Islands).