MDE invites nominations for the prestigious PAEMST Awards in STEM education

Listen to this article

The Mississippi Department of Education (MDE) has opened nominations and applications for the distinguished Presidential Awards for Excellence in Mathematics and Science Teaching (PAEMST). Aimed at celebrating educators in the science, technology, engineering, mathematics, and computer science sectors, this award stands as the most esteemed honor a teacher in the U.S. can receive in these fields.

For the 2023-24 award cycle, two exemplary STEM teachers, catering to grades K-6 in Mississippi, will be chosen. Those who attain this national recognition not only receive a $10,000 monetary award from the National Science Foundation but are also acknowledged in a ceremony held at the White House. Additionally, they gain a unique platform to provide suggestions on policy enhancement related to STEM education.

The invitation for nominations is broad. Whether you’re a parent, student, fellow educator, or a member of the general public, you can nominate an outstanding K-6 grade teacher who is contracted to teach in any of the STEM fields. Multiple nominations can be made for different teachers. Teachers also have the provision to nominate themselves by filling out a self-nomination form.

Since the inauguration of this award in 1983, it has celebrated the dedication and expertise of over 5,000 educators in the realm of STEM. Each year, a maximum of 108 teachers can be awarded this honor.

To ensure that your nomination is considered, remember that the cutoff date is Jan. 8, 2024. Those who are shortlisted will have until Feb. 6 to submit their applications and completed portfolios through the dedicated PAEMST portal.