Excellence in Mathematics and Science Teaching

In January 2025, President Biden named the recipients of the prestigious Presidential Awards for Excellence in Mathematics and Science Teaching (PAEMST) for 2021, 2022 and 2023. Five of the six Delaware educators who received the award are University of Delaware alumni. They include Maria Cobb, EHD99; Michael Doody, CAS14; Brian Heeney, CAS91; Michael Reitemeyer, EHD17; and Brittany Stewart, EHD12. 

Administered by the National Science Foundation, the PAEMST is the highest recognition that a kindergarten through twelfth grade science, technology, engineering or mathematics (STEM) teacher may receive for outstanding teaching in the United States. 

“I am proud of all of our UD alumni who have received this incredible honor,” said Rena Hallam, interim dean of the College of Education and Human Development (CEHD). “The PAEMST award not only recognizes excellence in math and science education, but also an unwavering dedication to the Delaware children and families that these educators serve. I am proud of our alumni’s accomplishments and grateful for their service to our communities.” 

Michael Reitemeyer, a graduate of CEHD’s educational leadership program, and Brian Heeney, a graduate of the College of Arts and Sciences’ (CAS) biology education program, are 2021 award winners. Reitemeyer teaches math at Mount Pleasant High School in Brandywine School District, and Heeney teaches science at Delcastle Technical High School in New Castle County Vocational Technical School District.

Maria Cobb, a graduate of CEHD’s elementary teacher education program and its former instruction program, is a 2022 award winner. Cobb teaches science at Mount Pleasant Elementary School in Brandywine School District.

Brittney Stewart, a graduate of CEHD’s former instruction program, and Michael Doody, a graduate of CAS’s plant and social sciences program, are 2023 award winners. Stewart teaches math at Caesar Rodney High School in Caesar Rodney School District and Doody taught science at William Penn High School in Colonial School District at the time of nomination. 

“This is one of the highest recognitions a teacher can receive. Congratulations to these educators whose students know first-hand the power of great instruction,” said Mark Holodick, Delaware secretary of education. “These teachers make science, technology, engineering and mathematics engaging and relevant to our students, and I am proud they are representing Delaware.”

About PAEMST 

The PAEMST has recognized excellence in STEM education since 1983. Award recipients receive a certificate signed by the president of the United States, a trip to Washington D.C. to attend a series of recognition events and professional development opportunities and a $10,000 award from the National Science Foundation.

Awardees also join an active network of outstanding educators from across the nation. Since 1983, more than 5,500 teachers have been recognized for their contributions in the classroom and to their profession. Awardees reflect the expertise and dedication of the nation’s teachers, and they demonstrate the positive impact of excellent teachers on student achievement.