IWU alumna Kelly Day is one of the 2018-2019 State Finalists for the Presidential Awards for Excellence in Mathematics and Science Teaching. Finalists were announced by the Indiana Department of Education (IDOE) on Aug. 6. The six Indiana finalists will now move forward to the national level.
“Kelly was one of the most energetic students I have ever taught,” said Mel Royer, Associate Professor and Chair of the Division of Mathematics and Computer Information Sciences department.
Since Day’s graduation from IWU, she has continued her interest in math education projects for which she was awarded an Eli Lilly Endowment Teacher Creativity Grant as well as a Fulbright Distinguished Award in Teaching.
“Though fully deserving of these awards, Kelly would have done her research just as thoroughly without the associated recognition. She wants math teachers everywhere to do outstanding work, and her life experiences now equip her to effectively advocate for them. I believe this willingness and ability to represent all math teachers makes her an outstanding candidate for a Presidential Award for teaching excellence,” states Royer.
The Presidential Awards are the nation’s highest honors bestowed by the United States government for teachers of K-12 science, technology, engineering, mathematics, and/or computer science teaching. Day is an Indiana Finalist for Math and teaches at Westfield Middle School.
“Behind every successful student is a hardworking, supportive, and exceptional teacher,” said Dr. Jennifer McCormick, Indiana Superintendent of Public Instruction. “Because of the dedication to excellence of Indiana’s finalists, our students are more proficient in the vital subjects of science, technology, engineering, and mathematics. I am proud of each and every finalist and honored they call Indiana home.”
Indiana finalists underwent a rigorous application process and were selected by a state committee for their outstanding qualifications. All six finalists will participate in an honor and recognition luncheon this fall.
“From the very beginning of her journey at IWU, Kelly was thoroughly committed to developing content knowledge and skills in mathematics as well as interpersonal and communication skills,” says Kim DeMichael, Assistant Professor of Education at IWU. “Kelly was warm, enthusiastic, bright, and committed to sharing her passion for math with adolescent students.”
Since 1983, more than 4,800 teachers have been recognized for their contributions in the classroom and their profession. Award recipients serve as models for their colleagues, inspiration to their communities, and leaders in the improvement of science, technology, engineering, mathematics, and/or computer science education. In addition, recipients receive a certificate signed by the President of the United States, a trip to Washington D.C. to attend a series of recognition events and professional development opportunities, and a $10,000 award from the National Science Foundation (NSF). NSF administers the awards program on behalf of The White House Office of Science and Technology Policy.