Presidential Awards for Excellence in Mathematics and Science Teaching (PAEMST)
This prestigious national awards program is intended to increase status and rewards for demonstrated professionalism, including leadership, in the areas of mathematics and science teaching so that individuals of high quality will be encouraged to enter and remain in the field of teaching.
Nominate a Teacher Today
The National Science Foundation (NSF) administers the Presidential Awards for Excellence in Science and Mathematics Teaching (PAEMST) for the White House, which began the program in 1983 to improve teaching in mathematics and the sciences. Elementary-level teachers have been included in the program since 1990. Each year, the program honors outstanding mathematics and science teachers throughout the United States and its territories in recognition of:
- high-quality classroom performance;
- the effects teachers have on students; and
- the teacher's personal and professional goals.
During its first decade, the PAEMST program has received significant favorable national attention and recognition while expanding its scope to embrace elementary-school teachers as well as middle/secondary-school teachers of mathematics and science.
After a rigorous state-level screening and selection process, the state finalists are again screened at the national level before 216 Presidential Awardees are Named to represent the states, territories, and jurisdictions covered by the PAEMST program.
Current State Finalists
2022 PAEMST State Finalist
Elementary Mathematics
- Heidi Fee, Charlestown Elementary
2021 PAEMST State Finalist Awaiting National Review
Secondary Mathematics:
- Donna MaCadden, Narragansett High School, Narragansett School System
- Paul Ruhle, Lincoln High School, Lincoln Public Schools
Secondary Sciences:
- Bryan Colahan, Tiverton High School, Tiverton School District
- Rachel Roberge, Scituate High School, Scituate Public Schools
Presidential Awardees
2020 National Awardees

Nicole Lemire
Samuel Slater Middle School
Pawtucket, Rhode Island
2020 Award | K-6 Science |

Nicolle (Nikki) Greene
Holliman Elementary
Warwick, Rhode Island
2020 Award | K-6 Mathematics |
Past National Awardees
Past State Finalist by Content Area