Ann Johnson

Ann Johnson, a second-grade teacher at Sageville Elementary School was one of seven Iowa teachers recently named state finalists for the Presidential Awards for Excellence in Mathematics and Science Teaching.

The five math finalists are:

  • Janna Bjork, a former third-grade math teacher who now teaches kindergarten English as a second language at Perry Elementary School in the Perry Community School District
  • Ann Johnson, a second-grade teacher at Sageville Elementary in the Dubuque Community School District
  • Molly Sweeney, a multi-age teacher at the Downtown School in the Des Moines Public Schools
  • Tamara Bane, a former third-grade teacher who is now a high school instructional coach at Winterset Senior High School in the Winterset Community School District
  • Tammie Cass, who teaches fifth and sixth grade math at Nodaway Valley Middle School in the Nodaway Valley Community School District

The two science finalists are:

  • Joshua Steenhoek, a fifth-grade teacher at Jefferson Intermediate School in the Pella Community School District
  • Jessica Watson, a multi-age teacher at the Downtown School in the Des Moines Public School

The Iowa finalists’ applications have been submitted to the national selection committee. One math and one science award-winner may be selected to represent Iowa. Award-winners receive $10,000 and a trip to Washington, D.C., where they will participate in recognition events and professional development programs.

“I’m inspired by these outstanding teachers, who will help lead the way as we bolster Iowa’s commitment to science, technology, engineering, and mathematics education,” Iowa Department of Education Director Brad Buck said.

The Presidential Awards for Excellence in Mathematics and Science Teaching are the nation’s highest honors specifically for kindergarten through 12th grade teachers of math and science.

More than 4,300 teachers have been recognized since Congress established the program in 1983. The National Science Foundation administers the awards on behalf of the White House Office of Science and Technology Policy.

Awards are given to math and science teachers from each of the 50 states and four U.S. jurisdictions. The program recognizes those teachers who develop and implement a high-quality instructional program that is informed by content knowledge and enhances student learning. Awards alternate annually between elementary and secondary teachers.

Read more about each finalist at https://www.educateiowa.gov/article/2014/11/12/meet-some-states-top-math-and-science-teachers

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