The National Science Foundation announced that Newport High teacher Brian Hanna was selected to receive a Presidential Award for Excellence in Mathematics and Science Teaching.  Mr. Hanna is one of 213 secondary teachers nationwide to receive this honor, and one of two in Oregon.  The awardees represent all 50 states, the District of Columbia, Puerto Rico, U.S. Territories and the Department of Defense Education Activity schools.

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.

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, D.C. for an awards ceremony, as well as educational and celebratory events and visits with members of the Administration. “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.

The Presidential Award for Excellence in Mathematics and Science Teaching is the nation’s highest honor for teachers of mathematics and science (including computer science).  Awardees serve as models for their colleagues, inspiration to the communities, and leaders in the improvement of mathematics and science education. “Congratulations to Brian for this well-deserved award,” said Superintendent Steve Boynton.  “He has been instrumental in leading the direction of mathematics instruction at the secondary level, and has contributed immensely to guiding the future of students he has taught.”

Information and photo by LCSD