The Bangor School Department is pleased to announce that Mr. Cary James, Bangor High School science teacher and Science Department Chair, has been awarded the prestigious Presidential Award for Excellence in Mathematics and Science Teaching (PAEMST). President Obama announced earlier this week the names of the 213 mathematics and science teachers nationwide receiving the award.
The Presidential Award for Excellence in Mathematics and Science Teaching is awarded to outstanding K-12 science and mathematics teachers from across the country. The winners are selected by a panel of distinguished scientists, mathematicians, and educators following an initial selection process at the state level.
“This award goes out to all of the students and people who have done so much for me to even be considered for this great honor,” states Mr. James. “It validates the work that my students and I have done together to understand the important environmental issues that face our country and world. It also speaks to the work that my colleagues and I have done to improve STEM education for underrepresented groups.”
Mr. James has been teaching for the Bangor School Department since 1999, has been Science Department Chair since 2006, and has been the STEM Research Coordinator since 2014. He coached the BHS Science Bowl team to two consecutive Maine Regional Science Bowl victories over the last two years.
“The Bangor School Department is fortunate to have Mr. James among our high-caliber teaching staff,” states Dr. Betsy Webb, Superintendent of Schools. “Mr. James was instrumental in the creation of the BHS STEM Academy, and our students and our schools benefit greatly from his expertise and his enthusiasm for environmental education.”
Mr. James will travel to Washington, DC on September 8 to receive his award, attend educational and celebratory events, and visit with members of the Administration. Winners of this Presidential honor also receive a $10,000 award from the National Science Foundation to be used at their discretion.
“The recipients of this award are integral to ensuring our students are equipped with critical thinking and problem-solving skills that are vital to our Nation’s success,” President Obama said. “As the United States continues to lead the way in the innovation that is shaping our future, these excellent teachers are preparing students from all corners of the country with the science, technology, engineering, and mathematics skills that help keep us on the cutting-edge.”
To learn more about the Presidential Award for Excellence in Mathematics and Science Teaching, visit https://paemst.org.
