The Presidential Award is an incredible honor. It is a tribute to dedicated teachers across the US working tirelessly to make mathematics relevant and engaging for students. I strive to create a community of learners in which students are confident to explore, create, think critically, and solve problems. This award is a reminder that our goal as mathematics educators is to be lifelong learners, encouraging students to develop a love for learning mathematics that extends beyond the classroom.

Phyllis Morrison Rome, GA | 7-12, Mathematics, 2021

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

Phyllis Morrison has been an educator for 36 years, spending the last seven years teaching seventh grade honors mathematics at Rome Middle School. She previously taught in Alabama for 29 years, including six years of seventh grade mathematics at Jacksonville High School and eight years at Kitty Stone Elementary where she taught sixth grade mathematics in addition to Title I and English Language Learner (ELL). She taught one year at Constantine Elementary, 13 years at E.T. Belsaw/Mt. Vernon School, and one year at Shiloh Christian School. Phyllis is currently a school board member for Jacksonville City Schools. As the seventh grade Mathematics Department Lead Teacher, Phyllis’ affection for teaching mathematics not only elevates learning opportunities for students but strengthens collaboration and instructional practices of her colleagues. An assiduous educator, she inspires students to reach their potential. By integrating real-world mathematics and hands-on, project-based learning, Phyllis keeps students engaged in their learning. Phyllis provides afterschool virtual tutoring support at her school. With a wholehearted desire to see all learners experience success, she is dedicated to do whatever she can to help. She was an Apple Vanguard team member and played an integral role in a 1:1 technology initiative for a school system. She has presented and assisted presentations at state technology conferences. Phyllis is a member of the National Council of Teachers of Mathematics and the Phi Kappa Phi Honors Society. Phyllis earned a B.S. and M.Ed. in elementary education from the University of South Alabama. She earned her Education Specialist degree from Jacksonville State University. Phyllis is certified in middle school mathematics with an in-field gifted certification.

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