Early College Academy math teacher Sidney Cerise has been named a finalist for the Presidential Awards for Excellence in Mathematics and Science Teaching (PAEMST), the highest national recognition for K-12 teachers in the areas of science, technology, engineering and math.

Every year, each state selects one to three awardees to move forward for national consideration. Cerise is one of two candidates from Colorado moving forward this year. Cerise is only the second District 6 teacher to receive this recognition. The last teacher to be named a finalist was in 1997.

According to the Colorado Department of Education, “To be selected as a Colorado state finalist is the highest honor given annually for the teaching of mathematics in the State of Colorado."

Cerise has worked at Early College Academy since 2017. She was hired in District 6 at Franklin Middle School in 2013, where she served as a math teacher and coach.

There is no definite timeline on when the national awardees will be announced. More than 100 teachers are recognized annually. 

Historically, awardees receive a certificate signed by the President and a trip to Washington, D.C., to attend a series of recognition events and professional development opportunities. They also receive a $10,000 award from NSF.