Local teacher wins presidential award for STEM teaching

Local teacher wins presidential award for STEM teaching

Her award is for excellence in teaching math

An Auke Bay Elementary School teacher received the Presidential Award for Excellence in Mathematics and Science Teaching.

Angie Wright was one of four Alaska teachers — among less than 100 in the country — to receive the award. A teacher for 16 years, according to her biography on the PAEMST website, Wright flew to Washington, D.C. to receive the award this week.

“I am honored to be recognized by this prestigious award. It has encouraged me to keep challenging students with high expectations, to value each child’s unique thinking, and to continue my own learning,” Wright wrote on the PAEMST website. “I am grateful to the mentors who have shaped my teaching.”

Weiss said that teachers are selected based on their distinction in the classroom and their dedication to improving STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics). Each year there are science and math awardees — Wright is awarded for her math teaching ability.

“We are incredibly proud of Angie and this accomplishment,” said Juneau School District Superintendent Dr. Bridget Weiss. “Her work with students in our district is incredibly effective.”

The PAEMST awards have been around since 1983, according to their website. Winners receive a trip to D.C. to receive recognition, a certificate signed by the president, and $10,000.


• Contact reporter Michael S. Lockett at 757-621-1197 or mlockett@juneauempire.com.


More in News

The Norwegian Cruise Line’s Norwegian Encore docks in Juneau in October, 2022. (Clarise Larson / Juneau Empire File)
Ships in Port for the Week of May 28

Here’s what to expect this week.

(Michael Penn / Juneau Empire File)
Police calls for Monday, May 29, 2023

This report contains information from law enforcement and public safety agencies.

Longtime Juneau resident Joe Emerson, co-owner of the F/V Tommy L II berthed in Aurora Harbor, smiles for a photo next to his boat in late May. Emerson is one of the hundreds of trollers in Southeast Alaska that will be directly impacted by a federal court order that may force the closure of the region’s king salmon troll fishery set to begin July 1. (Clarise Larson / Juneau Empire)
Southeast trollers remain hooked in web of Washington lawsuit that could halt summer season

Juneau fisherman says he’s concerned about his livelihood and future of the fishery.

A child plays in an undated photo. The Alaska Legislature put an additional $7.5 million towards grants for child care providers in this year’s budget. (Getty Images)
Child care providers say funds OK’d by Legislature crucial to staying open

Some advocates say more work to be done as $7.5M is half of what was sought

A troller fishes in Sitka Sound on Feb. 2, 2021. A charter fishing vessel sank in the area Sunday, resulting in one person dead and four missing. The U.S. Coast Guard called off a search for the missing persons Monday night. (James Poulson / Daily Sitka Sentinel)
1 dead, 4 missing after fishing charter boat sinks near Sitka

Coast Guard calls off search Monday night after company reports vessel overdue Sunday.

Chuck Caldwell, who served in the Army during the Vietnam War, lays a wreath on behalf of Veterans of Foreign Wars Taku Post 5559 at the base of the flagpole at Evergreen Cemetery in observance of Memorial Day on Monday. (Mark Sabbatini / Juneau Empire)
Remembering the true meaning of sacrifice

Memorial Day observations in Juneau see hundreds pay tribute to those who serve and persevere

Outgoing Juneau Empire Managing Editor Ben Hohenstatt (left) will be succeeded by reporter Mark Sabbatini (right) after five years to accept a job with the Alaska State Ombudsman. (Clarise Larson / Juneau Empire)
Empire managing editor departs, familiar face takes over role

Ben Hohenstatt departs as managing editor after five years, reporter Mark Sabbatini takes over.

(Michael Penn / Juneau Empire File)
Police calls for Sunday, May 28, 2023

This report contains information from law enforcement and public safety agencies.

(Michael Penn / Juneau Empire File)
Police calls for Saturday, May 27

This report contains information from law enforcement and public safety agencies.

Most Read