January 11, 2010

Suzanne Monagan Pilon receives Presidential Award for Excellence in Mathematics and Science Teaching; honored at Whitehouse Jan. 6, 2010

President Barack Obama named more than 100 science, math, and engineering teachers and mentors as recipients of two prestigious Presidential Awards for Excellence on July 9, 2009. The educators will receive their awards in the Fall at a White House ceremony. Hilton's Quest Elementary School Primary Multi-Age Teacher Suzanne Pilon was named a winner of the President Award for Excellence in Mathematics and Science Teaching.   Mrs. Pilon's classroom website at Quest Elementary.

The Presidential Award for Excellence in Mathematics and Science Teaching is awarded annually to the best pre-college-level science and math teachers from across the country. The winners are selected by a panel of distinguished scientists, mathematicians, and educators following an initial selection process done at the state level. Each year the award alternates, going either to science and math teachers in grades K through 6 (as it is this year) or to those teaching in grades 7 through 12.  Whitehouse Press Release

Winners of the Presidential Teaching Award receive $10,000 awards from the National Science Foundation to be used at their discretion. They also receive an expense-paid trip to Washington, D.C. for a White House awards ceremony and several days of educational and celebratory events, including visits with members of Congress and science agency leaders.

"There is no higher calling than furthering the educational advancement of our nation’s young people and encouraging and inspiring our next generation of leaders," President Obama said. "These awards represent a heartfelt salute of appreciation to a remarkable group of individuals who have devoted their lives and careers to helping others and in doing so have helped us all." 

In addition, the Presidential Award for Excellence in Science, Mathematics and Engineering Mentoring was also announced with the award each year going to individuals or organizations, recognizes the crucial role that mentoring plays in the academic and personal development of students studying science or engineering and who belong to minorities that are underrepresented in those fields.  Mrs. Pilon may be reached at 585-392-1000 ext. 6142.

For the official Whitehouse announcement:  http://www.whitehouse.gov/the_press_office/PRESIDENT-HONORS-OUTSTANDING-SCIENCE-MATH-ENGINEERING-TEACHERS-AND-MENTORS/