Being selected for the Presidential Award is a source of immense pride. My sixth grade science teacher, Mr. Corbett, saw beyond my shy exterior and challenged me in ways that taught me to believe in myself, ask questions, find answers, and dream big. Reflecting on this award prompted me to realize that Mr. C's legacy lives on through me. I also feel a deep sense of gratitude for my brilliant students, colleagues, mentors, and family for their collaboration, innovation, laughter, and inspiration.

Cynthia Soule Portland, ME | K-6, Science, 2020

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

Cynthia "Cindy" Soule has taught for 20 years at the Gerald E. Talbot Community School and one year at Fairview Elementary School and is currently an instructional leader. She fosters a dynamic learning environment that inspires curiosity and citizenship in her fourth grade students. Cindy shares her passion for the natural world by grounding learning in real-world contexts. She encourages students to construct scientific understanding through questioning, investigation, observation, and collaborative thinking. Through inquiry, discourse, and activism, she empowers students to see themselves as meaningful contributors to their community. To enrich student learning, she partners with community organizations including Side X Side, Maine Audubon, Federal Aviation Administration, Maine Science Teacher Association, and Maine Mathematics and Science Alliance. Cindy is a recipient of Portland Education Foundation, TD Banknorth, and STEM grants. Cindy serves on the Talbot Leadership Team, Building Steering Committee, and District Science and Literacy Teams. Cindy has developed NGSS-aligned integrated science and literacy units, collaborated on content vision statements that advance equity, piloted science curriculum, facilitated district and statewide professional development, conducted equity focus groups, and implemented outdoor learning initiatives. A 2020 Funds for Teachers Fellow, 2020 Cumberland County Teacher of the Year, and 2021 Maine Teacher of the Year, she looks forward to exciting opportunities to learn, including NASA Space Camp! Cindy holds a B.A. in social work from the University of Maine at Orono and an M.S. in special education from the University of Southern Maine. She holds both kindergarten through eighth grade general and special education certification.

Know a great teacher like Cynthia Soule? Nominate them for PAEMST!