Central Virginia's teachers are among the best in the country, according to the White House. Two educators with ties to Chesterfield County are the recipients of the Presidential Award for Excellence in Mathematics and Science Teaching.
Melanie Pruett is a seventh-grade teacher at Bailey Bridge Middle School. An educator for 31 years, Pruett earned the award for mathematics instruction.
Melanie Pruett
Melanie Pruett has been an educator for 31 years. She is the recipient of the Presidential Award for Excellence in Mathematics and Science Teaching in mathematics. (Photo courtesy: Chesterfield County Public Schools)
"The teaching profession is a noble, rewarding career overflowing with unsung heroes," Pruett says in comments that appear with her profile on the Presidential Award's website. "There are countless gifted educators who, day in and day out, strive to help the young people of our nation realize their potential and reach their dreams with very little recognition. The Presidential Award gives the utmost acknowledgement to this worthy profession that has been my passion for 31 years. It is an indescribable honor and a humbling recognition that goes beyond accolades with an incredible gift."
Anne Moore, who was a seventh-grade science teacher at Robious Middle when she was nominated, earned the award for science instruction. An educator for 17 years, Moore has been teaching sixth, seventh and eighth grade STEM and Technology at Goochland Middle School for the past two years.
"It is an incredible honor to be chosen from a field of distinguished educators to receive the Presidential Award," Moore says in her online comments. "My journey was possible with the support of family, students, and colleagues. The award offers me the opportunity to meet with our country’s policymakers, as well as consulting with other professionals who strive for excellence in science and technology education. Knowing that an award of this caliber can be life changing, I look forward to exploring the opportunities that lie ahead."
Anne Moore
Anne Moore, an educator for 17 years and currently a STEM and Technology teacher at Goochland Middle School, earned the Presidential Award for Excellence in Mathematics and Science Teaching for science instruction. (Photo courtesy: Chesterfield County Public Schools)
Only 108 educators across the country receive the prestigious Presidential Award for Excellence in Mathematics and Science Teaching, which is considered the nation's top honor for K-12 math and science teachers. The winners receive a $10,000 award from the National Science Foundation, to be used however they wish.
"These teachers are shaping America’s success through their passion for math and science,” President Obama said about the honorees. “Their leadership and commitment empower our children to think critically and creatively about science, technology, engineering, and math. The work these teachers are doing in our classrooms today will help ensure that America stays on the cutting edge tomorrow.”
