Originally Posted: June 8, 2023
Central Middle School 8th-grade science teacher Carrie Akins has been named a state finalist for the 2022 and 2023 Presidential Awards for Excellence in Mathematics and Science Teaching (PAEMST).
PAEMST is the highest recognition a K-12 mathematics or science teacher can receive for outstanding teaching in the United States. Awards alternate each year between elementary and secondary teachers.
Akins has spent 21 years in education. She was also selected as a 2018 Elementary-level PAEMST State Finalist, has presented at the Space Exploration Educators Conference in 2020 and 2023, and is affiliated with the Smithsonian National Air and Space Museum Teacher Innovator Institute since 2019.
When asked about her teaching philosophy, Akins said that sensemaking is an important part of science education because it helps students to understand science concepts and apply them to real-life situations. “Using real-world phenomena as the starting point for learning, I can give my students opportunities to make sense of the science behind the phenomenon. I hope to help students develop the skills they need to make sense of science on their own when they have moved on from my classroom.”
The finalists were chosen by a local selection committee of educators and past awardees. Each finalist demonstrated a mastery of math or science instruction and effective use of student assessments to improve student learning. Up to two Oklahoma finalists could be named national recipients of the award for each year.
National recipients will represent all 50 states and U.S. territories. Winners will receive a paid trip to Washington D.C., a $10,000 award from the National Science Foundation, and a certificate from President Biden.