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Leslie Anson, a teacher at Millbrook Middle School, was one of two mathematics teachers in the state who were named state-level finalists for the 2020 Presidential Awards for Excellence in Mathematics and Science Teaching at the elementary level, grades K-6.
The state finalists completed a rigorous application process that required them to demonstrate their excellence in content knowledge, as well as effective use of instructional methods and assessments to evaluate, monitor and improve student learning. The finalists also serve as leaders in education outside of the classroom. State finalists were chosen by a state selection committee made up of teachers, district personnel, representatives from educator organizations and past awardees.
The finalists’ applications are submitted to the awards’ National Review and Selection Committee in Washington D.C., which will determine the final award winners from each state. This committee is comprised of prominent mathematicians, scientists, mathematics/science education researchers, district-level personnel and classroom teachers.
Teachers who are selected as awardees receive a $10,000 award from National Science Foundation and a Presidential certificate. They will also join an
elite cohort of award-winning teachers who can influence state and national STEM teaching.
Anson teaches mathematics to sixth- and seventh-grade students at Millbrook Middle School. She has been with the district for eight years. She earned an honors bachelor of education degree from the University of Delaware, majoring in elementary education with a concentration in middle school mathematics. Anson has also earned a master of education degree from SUNY New Paltz, choosing childhood
special education as her major. She holds state Teaching certifications in grades 1-6 childhood education, grades 1-6 students with disabilities and grades 5-9 mathematics.
A press release said Anson believes intelligence and abilities can be developed through hard work and dedication and says she wants to improve her teaching by honestly reflecting on her lessons. It added that she is dedicated to her students, allowing them to come to their own understanding of math concepts. To meet the needs of diverse learners in her classroom, Anson incorporates multisensory instructional activities into her lessons,
including visual, auditory and kinesthetic.
“Our ... finalists represent New York’s outstanding math teachers and serve as models and inspirations to students and fellow teachers,” Board of
Regents Chancellor Lester W. Young Jr. said in the release. “They are innovating in their classrooms each day, opening opportunities for their students and preparing them for careers in our changing economy.”