A teacher with the Chamberlain School District has been selected as a state-level finalist for the Presidential Awards for Excellence in Mathematics and Science Teaching (PAEMST) program.
Valarie Nelson is one of three K-6 teachers that were selected to represent South Dakota.
Nelson is a 15-year Kindergarten teacher at Chamberlain Elementary. She holds a Bachelor of Science in Elementary Education and is currently working towards her Master’s in Leadership and Administration from Northern State University. In addition, Nelson is the assistant coach for cross country and track and field. She was honored as the Area 3 Assistant Cross Country Coach of the Year in 2022.
Valerie has served as a team leader, mentor teacher, on the teacher assistance team, former Treehouse Preschool board member, and currently is a member of the Chamberlain-Oacoma Early Learning Committee.
South Dakota’s other two finalists are Kinlee Stetson from Corral Drive Elementary in Rapid City and Michelle Stumpf with Belle Fourche Middle School.
PAEMST is the highest recognition that a Kindergarten through 12th grade mathematics or science teacher may receive for outstanding teaching in the United States. Since 1983, more than 5,000 teachers have been recognized for their contributions to mathematics and science education.
Presidential awardees receive a citation 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.
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