President Obama Honors Willow Creek Academy Math Specialist with National Teaching Award

SAUSALITO, Calif., Aug. 31, 2016 /PRNewswire/ -- Jennifer Kiederer Lawrence, Math Specialist at Willow Creek Academy, has been honored as a recipient of the prestigious Presidential Award for Excellence in Mathematics and Science Teaching. 

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The Presidential Award for Excellence in Mathematics and Science Teaching is awarded to 213 outstanding K-12 science and mathematics teachers, representing all 50 States, the District of Columbia, Puerto Rico, U.S. Territories, and the Department of Defense Education Activity schools. The winners are selected by a panel of distinguished scientists, mathematicians, and educators following an initial selection process at the state level.  The educators will receive their awards at a ceremony in Washington, D.C. on September 8, 2016.

"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 in a release provided by the White House. "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." 

Winners of this Presidential honor receive a $10,000 award from the National Science Foundation to be used at their discretion, and are invited to Washington, DC, for an awards ceremony, as well educational and celebratory events, and visits with members of the Administration.

"As a lifelong learner, I am passionate about embracing and catalyzing change, and I am honored to be awarded for doing what I love!  It's wonderful to have the opportunity to continually learn and refine my skills, and I feel lucky to be able to use my passion to improve mathematics education," said Ms. Lawrence.

Ms. Lawrence joined the Willow Creek Academy staff in 2015 after relocating to the Bay Area from Maryland, where she was nominated for the award.  In her current position, she coaches teachers, collaborates on assessment and data analysis, and works directly with students who need additional support or challenge in math.  "Jennifer is a phenomenally responsive educator, and she is committed to closing the opportunity and achievement gaps many of our students face," said Tara Seekins, Head of School.  "She inspires our students and faculty with her passion for teaching mathematics."

About Willow Creek Academy
Willow Creek Academy is a public charter school serving grades K-8 in the Sausalito-Marin City School District.  A Title I school dedicated to project-based learning, arts integration, and 21^st Century skills, Willow Creek serves students from Sausalito and Marin City in equal proportions and holds closing the achievement gap as a primary goal. www.willowcreekacademy.org

Media inquiries contact:
Jenny Le Coq
415-215-3417
Email

SOURCE Willow Creek Academy

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