The Presidential Award is a privilege to earn and a testament to all who work with me on my educational journey. This is a product of my magnificent mentors, energizing educators I work with in various organizations, collaborative colleagues who push me to do better, and the superb students I learn with every day. This award pushes me to continue partnering with educators to provide high-quality and equitable opportunities for all students to become excited about and involved with mathematics.

John O’Malley IV Glenview, IL | 7-12, Mathematics, 2023

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

John O’Malley IV has taught mathematics at Glenbrook South High School for the past 12 years. He previously taught at Oak Park & River Forest High School for one year. John teaches 9th-12th grade students in a variety of courses including Geometry Honors, Precalculus, and Algebra II Studies. He is also the Algebra/Geometry Curriculum Coordinator aiding in departmental initiatives by helping teachers implement new lessons and sharing resources. John takes on additional roles as curriculum team leader and new teacher mentor. John works as a student assistant program facilitator focusing on school wellness issues. He also created the Titan Teaching Assistant Program where students become leaders and assist in classrooms. Inside the classroom, John is known for his enthusiasm and his ability to engage all students using a variety of instructional strategies. He consistently strives to create student-centered classrooms where everyone is actively involved in the learning process. John frequently presents at local and state conferences specializing in engagement and research-based practices. He is currently a 9-12 director and board chair on the Illinois Council of Teachers of Mathematics. John earned a B.S. in mathematics from Elmhurst University; an M.S. in mathematics teaching from DePaul University; and an educational specialist degree in educational leadership from National Louis University. He is certified in grades 6-12 for mathematics and science courses.

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