Templeton Academy DC is proud to announce that STEM Coordinator and high school science teacher Rachel Stagner has been selected for two highly esteemed awards: participation in the NASA Climate Change Research Initiative and recognition as a recipient of the Presidential Award for Excellence in Mathematics and Science Teaching (PAEMST). These prestigious honors celebrate her contributions to science education and her dedication to fostering innovation in the classroom.
“We are grateful for these well-deserved recognitions of Rachel’s STEM expertise and her commitment to innovative teaching practices,” said Temp Keller, co-founder and president of Templeton Academy. “The knowledge and training Rachel will gain through these opportunities will directly benefit our students, bringing cutting-edge research and real-world experiences into the classroom.”
The NASA Climate Change Research Initiative is a highly competitive program that aims to engage educators in real-world climate change research, enhancing their ability to bring this critical issue into the classroom. By participating in this initiative, Stagner will gain firsthand experience working with NASA scientists to advance her understanding of climate science, which she will then incorporate into her teaching. Stagner will participate on a research team that seeks to apply machine learning techniques to estimate soil moisture. Her team will be led by NASA scientist, Dr. Alicia Joseph.
Stagner was also selected as a recipient of the prestigious Presidential Award for Excellence in Mathematics and Science Teaching (PAEMST). This national recognition honors K-12 teachers who have demonstrated outstanding teaching skills, a commitment to innovation, and a passion for inspiring students in STEM subjects. In addition to an award from the National Science Foundation and the opportunity to attend a recognition event in Washington DC, Rachel will have access to a national network of past and present PAEMST winners and innovative professional development opportunities.
“I am honored to be a recipient of these two distinguished awards and am excited to continue to improve my practice through the learning and networking opportunities that accompany them,” Stagner said. “Working at Templeton Academy, with our project-based approach to learning, has allowed me the freedom to innovate in the classroom and encourage our students to be inquiry-driven scientists. I look forward to building on this foundation in the years ahead.”