I was honored to be nominated for this prestigious award. Throughout my career, I've been passionately dedicated to my craft. Recognition wasn't my goal, as my motivation stems from my love of helping students learn. Yet, when I learned I won, I was overwhelmed with unexpected emotions, revealing the depth of my honor and humility in being selected. I owe this achievement to my students and the support of my family and administration, who have been instrumental throughout my journey.

Lori Sidelinger New Paris, PA | 7-12, Mathematics, 2023

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

Lori Sidelinger has been a dedicated mathematics educator at Chestnut Ridge High School for 31 years. She teaches Advanced Placement Statistics, Dual-Enrollment Calculus, Media Skills, Consumer Math, and Algebra to 9th-12th grade students. Lori’s AP students consistently outperform global and state peers. Lori's passion for making mathematics engaging is evident in her innovative teaching methods. She strives to make lessons relevant and connect to the real world. In her AP Statistics class, students design and complete their own studies. In Consumer Math, they role play as tax preparers and receive “payment” for their work. In Calculus, students create artwork based on calculus concepts, followed by a gallery walk to analyze their creations. Beyond the classroom, Lori has embraced various roles within the district, such as instructional coach, data analyst, mentor teacher, and Comprehensive Planning Committee member. She has guided student teachers as a Cooperating Teacher. Dedicated to continuous learning, Lori has completed numerous graduate courses, including those from the University of Pennsylvania for instructional coaching. She has attended the AP Statistics Institute twice and the Governor’s School of Excellence. Lori has played a key role in districtwide faculty training in technology and pedagogical practices and has presented at local and state conferences. She holds a B.S., summa cum laude, in mathematics education from the University of Pittsburgh at Johnstown and an M.EQ., in education, from the PA Department of Education. She is a certified 7-12 mathematics teacher and a K-12 media specialist. Additionally, Lori is a Google Level I Educator, a Certified myViewBoard Graduate, a Keystone Technology Integrator, and a Claes Nobel Educator of Distinction.

Know a great teacher like Lori Sidelinger? Nominate them for PAEMST!