David McDonald Sidney, MT | 7-12, Science, 2013

The official biography below was current at the time of the award.

David McDonald has taught physical sciences at Sidney High School for the past 33 years. His first year included teaching Earth Science at Sidney Junior High School. Each year, David teaches Basic and Advanced Physics and Chemistry courses along with many elective sciences such as Astronomy, Projects Class, and Caveman Chemistry. His students range from high school freshmen to seniors. This past year, he added a computer programming course to his high school’s curriculum. He is a mentor for the science club, the chess club, and for team members of Science Olympiad and robotics competitions. With his love for life-long learning, he has participated in science programs throughout most of his teaching career. These include the Murdoch Partners in Science Research, the Teacher Leaders Research-Based Experience at Kitt Peak, the NASA Research Experience for Teachers, the Spitzer Teachers Research Project, and the Rural Trust Global Teacher Fellowship which took him to Japan. David often presents at state and national teachers’ meetings to share his experiences. David has a B.S. in physics and a M.S. in science education from Montana State University. He is certified in secondary science education with endorsements in physics, mathematics, and broad field science.

• High-resolution version of the official portrait photograph
• Awardee holding Presidential certificate between Megan Smith, U.S. Chief Technology Officer and Director of the National Science Foundation, Dr. France A. Còrdova.
• High-resolution version of the teacher profile photograph

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