Celebrating Excellence: Six Hawaii DOE Educators Honored with National Award for Outstanding Science and Math Teaching

HONOLULU — Recently, six dedicated educators from Hawai‘i received the prestigious Presidential Awards for Excellence in Mathematics and Science Teaching (PAEMST). This award is the highest honor for teachers in STEM fields across the United States, as announced by President Joe Biden.

The honored educators from Hawai‘i are:

• Whitney Aragaki, Waiākea High School
• Jessica Barbera, Thomas Jefferson Elementary School
• Michael Ida, Kalani High School
• Gregory Kent, Kailua Elementary School
• Karleen Lynch, Pearl City High School
• Sarah Milianta-Laffin, ʻIlima Intermediate School

Karleen Lynch and Sarah Milianta-Laffin were part of the 2023 awardees, while Jessica Barbera and Gregory Kent received their honors in 2022. Whitney Aragaki and Michael Ida were recognized in 2021. All six were celebrated together in an announcement from the White House.

These teachers were nominated by their school communities, including parents, students, and colleagues. They serve as role models and leaders, contributing greatly to STEM education.

Hawai‘i Superintendent Keith Hayashi expressed pride in these educators, saying their commitment to innovation and excellence inspires not just their students, but also their colleagues and the community. He emphasized their role in preparing students for a future filled with opportunities.

The award comes with many perks: a certificate signed by President Biden, a trip to Washington, D.C. for recognition events, professional development, and a $10,000 award from the National Science Foundation. Recipients also gain access to a network of outstanding educators from across the country.

Since its inception in 1983, the PAEMST has recognized over 5,500 teachers. This program showcases the importance of quality teaching in enhancing student success and the overall value of educators in shaping the future of education.

Each year, up to 110 teachers are honored from all 50 states, D.C., Puerto Rico, and U.S. territories. This marks a celebration of dedication, expertise, and the lasting impact of excellent teachers in the field of education.

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