The Presidential Award validates the hard work I have put into improving my practice for the benefit of my students. I am grateful to those who have taught me, mentored me, and given me the opportunity to teach mathematics. Every day, I aim to incrementally advance as a teacher and learn something new. Winning this award encourages me to continue the work of helping students to find success in mathematics and shows them that perseverance pays off!

Justin Swasey Headland, AL | 7-12, Mathematics, 2021

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

Justin Swasey has taught mathematics at Headland Middle School for the last 13 years. Previously, he spent one year teaching mathematics to 7th–12th grade students at The Opportunity Academy and one year teaching mathematics at Daleville Middle School. He also spent five years teaching as an adjunct instructor at Enterprise-Ozark Community College. Justin currently serves as the Mathematics Department Chair for Headland Middle School in addition to teaching Geometry to ninth grade students. Using engaging, challenging, cooperative lessons, Justin seeks to create memorable moments for his students. His instructional videos and after school tutoring serve as additional help for those who were absent or did not understand the lesson in class. His mathematics club incorporates interesting non-curricular tasks that challenge students to think deeply and work together to develop solutions. Justin trained novice and experienced teachers for two summers in five different locations across Alabama. He modeled rigorous lessons in Laying the Foundation which help students develop perseverance in Algebra I. Justin has been recognized for outstanding teaching throughout his career. As a substitute teacher, he received the teacher of the month award from Carroll High School. He has earned teacher of the year honors from Headland Middle twice and teacher of the year for Henry County Schools once. Justin earned his A.A. from Enterprise-Ozark Community College. He completed a B.S. in mathematics and an M.S. in mathematics education from Troy University. Justin finished his educational specialist degree in teacher leadership from the University of West Alabama. He is a National Board Certified Teacher. His Alabama teaching certificate allows him to teach 6th-12th grade mathematics.

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