Chicago, USA: Since its inception in 1983, the Presidential Awards for Excellence in Mathematics and Science Teaching (PAEMST) has been recognizing K-12 STEM educators across the U.S. for their exceptional achievements. These awards, based on content expertise and innovative teaching strategies, aim to honor those making significant contributions to education and engaging diverse learners.

On January 13, President Joe Biden announced over 300 educators as recipients of the prestigious PAEMST, including several distinguished Indian-Americans who have been recognized for their outstanding roles in STEM education and mentorship. The National Science Foundation, which oversees the PAEMST, rewards each recipient with a $10,000 prize.

Among the honored Indian-American educators are:

1. Vivekanand Balija, a science teacher at William Annin Middle School in New Jersey, who brings 17 years of experience to his students. Leveraging his expertise as a biochemist and geneticist, he involves his students in STEM activities such as analyzing weather data and modeling landscapes. Balija also co-founded the school's Forensics Speech and Debate program. He holds a B.S. in biological sciences, an M.S. in cell and molecular biology, a Ph.D. in biochemistry from St. John’s University, and an M.A. in education from SUNY Empire State.
2. Rama Devagupta, a biology and chemistry teacher at Southridge High School in Washington, draws from her research experience at the Pacific Northwest National Laboratory to enrich her lessons. Devagupta has also secured multiple grants, including the 2024 Hutch Fellowship. She holds a B.S. in chemistry, botany, and zoology, an M.S. in chemistry from Ravishankar University, and a Ph.D. in bioorganic chemistry from Texas A&M University.
3. Anjana Iyer, an inclusion chemistry teacher at Hillsborough High School in New Jersey, is dedicated to fostering an inclusive classroom environment. She co-teaches chemistry and has presented at national conferences on inclusive education. Iyer earned a B.S. in chemistry from Stella Maris College and an M.A.T. in special education and general education from The College of New Jersey.
4. Krishnan Ranjani, a computer technology and mathematics instructor at Lincoln High School in Portland, guided students in creating a 3-D face shield prototype during the COVID-19 pandemic. Ranjani holds two bachelor’s degrees—one in mathematics and another in music theory—from Reed College, as well as master’s degrees in mathematics and mathematics teacher education.
5. Rajini Sundararaj, a science educator with 28 years of teaching experience at South Atlanta High School, advocates for equity in STEM through differentiated instruction and inquiry-based labs. She holds a B.S. and M.S. in physics from Bharathiar University and an Ed.S. in curriculum and instruction from Lincoln Memorial University.

These educators exemplify excellence in STEM instruction and mentorship, equipping students with the knowledge and skills to meet the challenges of tomorrow.