Emily McDonald Wins Presidential Award for Excellence in Mathematics and Science Teaching
Chattanooga, TN- Emily McDonald, a math teacher at University High, has been awarded the Presidential Award for Excellence in Mathematics and Science Teaching (PAEMST) by the White House. Established in 1983, the PAEMST is the highest honor bestowed by the U.S. Government to K-12 math and science teachers. Winners are selected for their teaching excellence and ability to engage students in STEM subjects. Emily McDonald is the only recipient from Tennessee for 2023, recently announced on January 13, 2025. Teachers who are selected as PAEMST Awardees receive a trip to Washington, D.C., where they attend a series of recognition events and professional development opportunities. Awardees also receive a $10,000 award from the National Science Foundation (NSF), a Presidential certificate, and join a cohort of teachers who can influence state and national STEM teaching.
Emily McDonald is a graduate of Ooltewah High School, Tennessee Tech University, and the University of Tennessee, Knoxville. At University High, she currently teaches Algebra 2, Pre-Calculus, and Statistics. She is known for helping students connect math to everyday life and using technology to inspire creativity.
"We have so many great teachers in our state and district. I'm very honored," McDonald said. "I am a product of Hamilton County Schools, and it's important to me to give back to my community. It's been very impactful to work with people in this community– from teachers to district leaders during my time at Red Bank High School and University High. There are so many teachers in Hamilton County that have taught me, pushed me, and challenged me to be a better teacher–that has helped me obtain this honor."
You can read more about Emily McDonald when she was first named a Tennessee finalist for the award in 2023 here:
https://www.hcde.org/newsroom/archive_23-24/2023_presidential_award.
