Three New Hampshire educators finalists for Presidential Awards for Excellence in Mathematics and Science Teaching

CONCORD, NH — Three Granite State educators have been chosen as the New Hampshire 2023 state finalists for the prestigious Presidential Awards for Excellence in Mathematics and Science Teaching (PAEMST). 

The finalists are: 

• Joanne Goelzer, science teacher at Coe-Brown Northwood Academy in Northwood
• Karen McCallion, science teacher at Epping Middle School in Epping
• Sandra Swiechowicz, computer science teacher at Raymond High School in Raymond

“State finalists represent the most outstanding teachers New Hampshire has to offer, as they serve as both a role model and an inspiration to their students and fellow teachers,” said Frank Edelblut, education commissioner. “These three educators are highly engaging and motivational, and we commend them for their newest recognition and their ongoing allegiance to STEM learning and innovation.”

All three finalists will move forward to the national level and are eligible to receive a PAEMST national award – the nation’s highest honor for K-12 science, technology, engineering, mathematics and computer science teachers. The National Science Foundation, on behalf of the White House Office of Science and Technology Policy, administers the awards program. 

Each national Presidential Awardee receives a certificate signed by the President of the United States, a $10,000 award from the National Science Foundation and an all-expenses paid trip for an award ceremony in Washington, D.C. In addition, awardees join a national cohort of award-winning teachers, providing opportunities to impact teaching on a state and national scale.