An Indian American science teacher Radhika Plakkot was recently named by President Barack Obama, as one of the 103 mathematics and science teachers, for the prestigious Presidential Award for Excellence in Mathematics and Science Teaching. Plakkot, who teaches biology at the Huntingtown High School, Calvert County in Maryland is the only Indian American in the group. She and other educators will receive their awards in Washington, D.C. later this year.
Awarded annually, the Presidential Award for Excellence in Mathematics and Science Teaching, is given to the best pre-college-level science and mathematics teachers from across the country. Each year the award alternates between mathematics and science teachers teaching Kindergarten through 6th grade, and those teaching 7th through 12th grades. This year it goes to teachers teaching 7th through 12th grades. Winners receive a US$10,000 award from the National Science Foundation to be used at their discretion. They also receive an expenses-paid trip to Washington, D.C. for an awards ceremony and several days of educational and celebratory events, including visits with members of Congress and science agency leaders.
