As an African American educator, the Presidential Award means that diverse populations of students can see themselves being successful in STEM related careers. It means having a collective voice in changing the narrative and stigma that surrounds teaching equitable science education within the public school system. This award truly means that my dedication as a science educator has been recognized by leaders in the science profession and is a dedication to my family for their unwavering support.

Rhonda Stovall Saint Louis, MO | K-6, Science, 2022

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

Rhonda Stovall has been an educator for 24 years. She has taught at Gateway MST Elementary School for 19 years. She previously taught at Farragut Elementary School for two years and at Sherman Elementary School for her first three years as a teacher. Rhonda has been a science enrichment lab teacher for the past seven years. In her classroom, Rhonda uses explore labs that allow students to rotate between different stations that are reflective of NGSS standards and concepts. These stations allow students to investigate, explore, and question science phenomena independently and collectively. Rhonda's love and dedication for education goes beyond the classroom setting. Within the district, Rhonda is the Lead Science Teacher in her building. She is a mentor to beginning and tenured classroom teachers across the district. She is a teacher leader in science for the district and has helped write the district's science curriculum for the last two years. She also is a strong advocate for equity in science education for students with disabilities. She is a member of the National Science Teaching Association (NSTA), is an executive council member for Science Teachers of Missouri, and works collaboratively with the St. Louis American Newspaper. Rhonda has a B.A., cum laude, in elementary education from Harris Stowe State College. She is certified in mild/moderate behavior disorders and mild/moderate learning disabilities. She has a Master's degree in special education, cum laude, as an instructional specialist from Arkansas State University. She also has an Education Specialist degree, magna cum laude, in educational leadership from Arkansas State University.

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