DOE congratulates award-winning math and science teachers

CONCORD- Education Commissioner Frank Edelblut congratulates Michelle Morton-Curit of Exeter High School and Susan Downer of Souhegan High School on being named this year’s recipients of the Presidential Excellence Awards in Mathematics and Science Teaching (PAEMST). Established in 1983, PAEMST is the highest award given by the U.S. Government to kindergarten through 12th grade teachers of mathematics and science, including computer science.

“STEM is a crucial part of every New Hampshire student’s education, and this year’s winners show how much students benefit from having excellent math and science teachers,” said Education Commissioner Frank Edelblut. “I want to congratulate Michelle Morton-Curit and Susan Downer for the difference they make in their classrooms.”

A panel of distinguished mathematicians, scientists, and educators at the State and National levels assess the applications before recommending nominees to OSTP.  Teachers are selected based on their distinction in the classroom and dedication to improving science, technology, engineering, and math (STEM) education. President Donald J. Trump this week announced the winners from all 50 states, the District of Columbia, the Department of Defense Education Activity (DoDEA) schools, the Commonwealth of Puerto Rico, and the United States territories which includes American Samoa, Guam, the Commonwealth of the Northern Mariana Islands, and the United States Virgin Islands.  Nominations and awards are facilitated by the White House Office of Science and Technology Policy (OSTP) and the National Science Foundation.

Michelle Morton-Curit is entering her 25th year at Exeter High School. She currently teaches 9th-11th grade Algebra Foundations, Honors Geometry, and Academic Geometry.

“I am honored and humbled to be a recipient of the Presidential Award and to be included among the many talented mathematics educators who inspire students every day," Morton-Curit said. “This award is recognition not only of my accomplishments as an educator, but also of those of the many mentors, colleagues, and students who have been influential in my career. I look forward to more opportunities to reflect and grow so that I can continue to do my part in providing quality mathematics education for all students.”

Susan Downer is entering her 25th year as a science teacher at Souhegan High School in Amherst. She currently teaches 10th-12th grade Chemistry and AP Chemistry.

“Receiving the Presidential Award is both confirming and empowering. Being chosen by distinguished colleagues in the field helps validate my passion to have students develop the skills and practices necessary to do scientific inquiry,” Downer said. “I strongly believe in students 'doing' science and hope that I can use this endorsement to empower others to help develop the next generation of scientists.”

Morton-Curit and Downer will be recognized at the 2020 New Hampshire Celebrating Leadership in Education Awards. 

For more information on PEAMST, visit the New Hampshire Department of Education or www.PAEMST.org.