The Presidential Award is an honor that celebrates the influence of excellent educators in my life. This influence began with my parents, grew as a result of my third-grade teacher who inspired me to teach, and continues through my students and dedicated colleagues in La Porte, Michigan City, and Purdue University North Central. This award represents them as much as it does me. I feel blessed to receive an award for doing what I believe is my God-given purpose in life.

Martin Briggs La Porte, IN | K-6, Mathematics, 2014

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

Martin Briggs has taught for 38 years in the LaPorte Community School Corporation. He currently teaches fourth grade reading, spelling, mathematics, English, social studies, and science at Crichfield Elementary School. He previously taught at Riley Elementary School for 28 years. Throughout his career, Martin has collaborated with colleagues in LaPorte County to develop a challenging mathematics experience for students. Martin provides training for Conceptual Algebra Readiness for Everyone (CARE), a curriculum project to help children develop conceptual algebra readiness skills. CARE is funded by an Indiana Mathematics and Science Partnership grant with Michigan City Area Schools and Purdue University North Central. Martin also provides professional development for the Mastering Videos project, an initiative designed to help teachers develop problem-based video activities that cultivate algebra readiness and science skills in real-world scenarios. Martin has shared his experiences in early algebra readiness at National Council of Teachers of Mathematics Conferences at the state, regional, and national levels. Martin earned a B.A. in elementary education from Anderson University in Anderson, IN, and a M.S. in education from Purdue University North Central. He is certified with an Indiana Life License in kindergarten through eighth grade elementary education. 

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