Justin Swasey, a 9th-grade math teacher at Headland Middle School, has been awarded the Presidential Award for Excellence in Mathematics and Science Teaching (PAEMST). This prestigious honor is the highest national recognition for K-12 math and science educators in the United States. 

The PAEMST recognizes educators who have demonstrated exceptional teaching practices and developed high-quality instructional programs in mathematics and science. Swasey was selected for this honor based on his innovative approach to teaching and his dedication to student success. He has nearly 14 years of experience with the Henry County Board of Education. 

Swasey is a proud alumnus of Troy University. He earned his Bachelor of Science (B.S.) in Mathematics and his Master of Science (M.S.) in Mathematics Education from TROY. Additionally, Swasey holds an Educational Specialist (Ed.S.) degree in Teacher Leadership from the University of West Alabama. He is also a National Board Certified Teacher. Swasey’s Alabama teaching certificate qualifies him to teach 6th-12th grade mathematics. 

As a recipient of the PAEMST, Swasey will receive a certificate signed by the President, a trip to Washington, D.C. to attend recognition events and professional development opportunities, and a $10,000 cash award. 

To be eligible for the PAEMST, teachers must meet several criteria: 

·                     Teach science, technology, engineering, or mathematics at the 7-12 grade level in a public, charter, or private school. 

·                     Hold at least a bachelor’s degree from an accredited institution. 

·                     Be a full-time employee of their school or district, teaching at least 50% of the school’s instructional time. 

·                     Have at least five years of full-time teaching experience before the 2024-2025 academic school year. 

·                     Teach in one of the 50 U.S. states, Department of Defense Education Activity schools, or U.S. territories. 

·                     Be a U.S. citizen or permanent resident. 

·                     Not have previously received the PAEMST award at the national level. 

Dr. Fred Figliano, the Dean of the College of Education, said, “It is with great pride that I congratulate Justin Swasey on receiving the Presidential Award for Excellence in Mathematics and Science Teaching. His dedication to student success and his innovative approach to teaching exemplify the values and standards we aim to cultivate in our future educators. This prestigious recognition is a reflection of his hard work, passion, and impact on the field of education.” 

When asked what advice he would give to future teachers, Swasey said, “Seek out mentors who can help you improve your teaching practice. Dr. Buddy Weldon, who led the Technology in Motion program for TROY’s Inservice Center, for example, helped me incorporate technology into my classroom by giving simple, actionable steps. One key tip was creating instructional videos for absent or struggling students. When the pandemic hit, I already had a library of videos to support virtual learning.”