Sand Creek Middle School Science Teacher James Brown recently found out he is one of about 100 teachers who was named by President Barack Obama as a recipient of a Presidential Award for Excellence.
Brown will receive his award, which includes $10,000 from the National Science Foundation to be used at his discretion, on an unknown date in the Fall at the White House. The teachers will also receive an expense-paid trip to Washington, D.C. for the awards ceremony, as well as several days of educational events with members of Congress and science agency leaders.
In order to qualify for the awards, the teachers needed to be nominated. Brown said his nomination was made by Sand Creek Principal David Perry. The winners are then chosen by a panel of scientists, mathematicians and educators on the federal level, after they have been selected by a similar panel on a state level.
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, Obama said in a written statement. `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 at all.`
Brown said he was not aware that he had won the award until this week. He also said he is extremely excited.
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