A Waiakea High School teacher has received the nation’s highest award for science and math teachers.
A Waiakea High School teacher has received the nation’s highest award for science and math teachers.
Whitney Aragaki is one of six public school teachers in Hawaii who will receive the Presidential Award for Excellence in Mathematics and Science Teaching.
Aragaki’s award was actually granted in 2021, however. Hawaii Department of Education spokeswoman Kimberly Yuen said the White House, which issues the award, did not announce recipients between 2021 and 2023 for unknown reasons, and that three years of awardees were announced Monday all at once.
Typically, the award recognizes up to 110 teachers each year.
This year, however, 336 teachers and mentors nationwide received the award and the similar Presidential Award for Excellence in Science, Mathematics and Engineering Mentoring.
Awardees will receive a trip to Washington, D.C., to attend a series of recognition events, a certificate signed by president Joe Biden, and a $10,000 award from the National Science Foundation.
“On behalf of the entire Hawaii State Department of Education, I extend my heartfelt congratulations to our six extraordinary educators on receiving this distinguished national honor,” said Superintendent Keith Hayashi in a statement. “Their dedication to fostering innovation and excellence in STEM education inspires not only their students but also their peers and communities across Hawaii.
“This recognition is a testament to their commitment to preparing our students for a future of limitless possibilities.”
