A Perry Elementary School teacher has been selected as a state finalist for the Presidential Awards for Excellence in Mathematics and Science teaching.

Janna Bjork previously taught third grade math at Perry Elementary before moving on to be a kindergarten English teacher.  She’s one of seven finalists in Iowa who will be considered for the nation’s highest honor in this field.

Bjork says she strives to help students develop a sense of ownership in their math learning by involving them in self-evaluating their progress toward learning goals.  She says “As students realize there is often more than one way to solve a problem and more than one solution, they become eager to share their thinking and start developing confidence”.

The finalists’ applications have been submitted to the national selection committee, and one teacher in each subject may be selected to represent Iowa in the national contest.

Winners will receive $10,000 and a trip to Washington D.C. to participate in recognition events and professional development programs.

The award program was established in 1983 and awards teachers who develop and implement a high-quality instructional program that is informed by content knowledge and enhances student learning.