The Delaware Department of Education has named six Delaware teachers as state finalists for the 2025 Presidential Awards for Excellence in Mathematics and Science Teaching (PAEMST), the highest recognition that K-12 STEM teachers can receive for outstanding teaching in the United States. Finalists’ applications will now move forward to the national level for final selection of the 2025 PAEMST National Awardees.

The 2025 Delaware state finalists are:

• David Eroh, science, Brandywine High School, Brandywine School District
• Dasianee Gavin, science, Middle School of Excellence, Capital School District
• Sarah Leonard, science, Louis L. Redding Middle School, Appoquinimink School District
• Jacalyn Jenkins, mathematics, Smyrna Middle School, Smyrna School District
• Katie Menhart, mathematics, Smyrna High School, Smyrna School District
• Shellee Wong, mathematics, Odessa High School, Appoquinimink School District

The goal of the PAEMST award program is to exemplify the highest standards of mathematics and science teaching (including technology, engineering and computer science) in addition to honoring individual achievement. Awardees serve as models for their colleagues, inspiration to their communities, and leaders in the improvement of STEM education.  The award alternates each year between teachers of kindergarten through 6th grade and those teaching 7th through 12th grades. Every year each state selects up to three mathematics teachers and three science teachers as state finalists. A national selection committee reviews state finalist applications and selects up to one awardee in each content area for every state. These teachers are recognized for their contributions to teaching and learning and their ability to help students make progress. Finalists who are selected as national awardees will take part in a weeklong series of networking and professional development activities in Washington, D.C., and receive $10,000 from the National Science Foundation.

Find photos of the finalists here. For more information about PAEMST and to see future nomination forms and application instructions, visit paemst.nsf.gov.

Media contact: Alison May, alison.may@doe.k12.de.us, 302-735-4006

Print