Kimberly Riddle ’98, M.Ed ’04 poses with her Presidential certificate between U.S. Secretary of Education Arne Duncan and National Science Foundation Deputy Director Cora Marrett. Photo provided by National Science Foundation.
This summer fewer than 100 math and science educators received the nation’s highest honor in their field. Chancellor High School math teacher Kimberly Riddle ’98, M.Ed ’04, was among them.
“These teachers are the best of the best,” President Obama said of the 97 winners of the 2011 Presidential Award for Excellence in Mathematics and Science Teaching (PAEMST), reserved for those who develop and implement effective instructional programs.
Riddle has spent a decade teaching algebra, geometry, pre-calculus, and other courses at the Spotsylvania County, Va., high school. Lacing her classes with hands-on activities and discussion, she’s advocated for curriculum changes in algebra-based courses since attending a 2008 session about the importance of visualizations, context, and pattern building.
“Knowledge gained should not be withheld for self-serving purposes,” Riddle said on the PAEMST website. “Knowledge should be shared with colleagues.”
The award-winning teacher earned two degrees from UMW: a bachelor’s in liberal studies and, in 2004, a master’s of education.
She and other honorees received a three-day June trip packed with professional development opportunities and meetings with Obama administration members and National Science Foundation staff in Washington, D.C. They each also won a $10,000 cash award.