Jo Anne Deshon and Karen Fredricks Are Honored by President Obama
Two Christina Teachers Attend January 6 Ceremony at the White House

President Obama honored more than 100 science, math, and engineering teachers and mentors as recipients of the prestigious Presidential Awards for Excellence in Mathematics and Science Teaching this week.  The winners from Delaware are both teachers in the Christina School District - Karen Fredricks from Marshall Elementary School in mathematics, and Jo Anne Deshon from Downes Elementary School in science.  The two outstanding teachers received their awards on January 6 at a White House ceremony. 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.

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.”

Click here to watch White House Ceremony video.

Click here to learn more about the Presidential Awards for Excellence in Mathematics and Science Teaching.