West Virginia Educators Honored with Prestigious Presidential Awards for Excellence in Math and Science

Four dedicated teachers from West Virginia have been honored with the Presidential Awards for Excellence in Mathematics and Science Teaching (PAEMST). Nationwide, 336 educators received this renowned award, acknowledging their vital role in shaping future generations in science, math, and engineering.

Here are the West Virginia recipients:

Kerianne Smead has been teaching math for 12 years at Morgantown High School. She’s also taught at Fairmont Senior, Preston High, and Greenbrier East. As a fellow of the Mountaineer Mathematics Master Teacher program, Kerianne collaborates with others to create engaging solutions for classroom challenges. She’s not only recognized for her work at the West Virginia Council of Teachers of Mathematics but also as the 2024 Mathematics Teacher of the Year for secondary education.

Alicen Adkins, a science teacher at Moorefield Middle School, has been shaping young minds for nine years. She holds degrees in Nuclear Medicine Technology and Secondary Science Education. Alicen has co-coached an award-winning robotics program and is active on her school’s media and leadership teams. Her contributions extend to various roles with the West Virginia Department of Education and the Governor’s STEM Institute. Her numerous awards reflect her impact, including the 2019 Teacher of the Year at Moorefield Middle School and the West Virginia Outstanding Earth Science Teacher in 2020.

Renee Haines has been a biology teacher at Martinsburg High School for 17 years. With degrees in both Biology and Secondary Education from West Virginia University, she leads the Traveling Science Show, engaging about 2,000 students each year in hands-on science experiments. Renee also supports her fellow teachers by training them on literacy models and developing cross-curricular projects, enhancing the educational experience for many.

Adam Riazi teaches math and computer science at Cabell Midland High School. He has 17 years of experience, alongside degrees in mathematics and education. Adam is a National Board Certified Teacher and has been recognized as a Mountaineer Mathematics Master Teacher. He actively leads professional learning communities at his school and has received several awards for his contributions to education, including a national honor from the Computer Science Teachers Association.

State Superintendent Michele L. Blatt expressed pride in these educators for their acknowledged dedication to their students and communities. Each teacher’s unique approach to education embodies their passion for teaching.

The PAEMST, established in 1983, is the highest award from the U.S. government for K-12 educators in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics. Awardees are chosen for their exceptional classroom performance and their commitment to improving education in these critical fields. They complete a thorough application process that showcases their expertise and adaptability. Winners receive a certificate signed by the President, a trip to a national ceremony, and a $10,000 grant from the National Science Foundation. Since its start, over 5,200 educators have been honored.

To learn more, visit the PAEMST website.