Pasco educator wins presidential award

A Pasco educator is one of more than 100 people recognized this week by President Obama for excellence in math and science teaching.

Georgia Boatman, regional science coordinator for Education Service District 123, was told Tuesday she's getting the Presidential Award for Excellence in Mathematics and Science Teaching.

The award is given annually to the best pre-college level math and science teachers in the nation.

Nominees are selected at the state level and then evaluated by a panel of scientists, mathematicians and educators.

This year the award recognizes those teaching math and science in kindergarten to sixth grade. In alternate years, the award goes to seventh- to 12th-grade teachers.

Winners receive $10,000 from the National Science Foundation to use at their discretion and an expenses-paid trip to the White House for an awards ceremony.

"There is no higher calling than furthering the educational advancement of our nation's young people and encouraging and inspiring our next generation of leaders," Obama said in a written statement. "These awards represent a heartfelt salute of appreciation to a remarkable group of individuals who have devoted their lives and careers to helping others and in doing so have helped us all."

Boatman said she's honored and humbled to be chosen.

"Science, well taught, is a vital and necessary part of a successful elementary school experience," she said. "It can provide the inspiration for students to continue on with their education and, when integrated with other subjects, is the perfect partner for subjects such as math, reading, and especially writing."

-- Michelle Dupler: 582-1543; mdupler@tricityherald.com