It is truly an honor to receive this award, particularly as it acknowledges my commitment and drive for continuous improvement that I have demonstrated in my teaching career. As the landscape of education changes, so must we – not just to meet, but to overcome the challenges. I have grown as a teacher by trying new things and reflecting on whether the changes made a difference. I am grateful for the support of my family, colleagues, and especially my students, whose feedback has been invaluable.

Elizabeth Hayden Standish, ME | 7-12, Mathematics, 2023

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

Elizabeth “Beth” Hayden has taught mathematics at Bonny Eagle High School for the past 16 years. Currently she is teaching Advanced Placement (AP) Statistics, Algebra 2, and Discrete Mathematics, and is an afterschool mathematics interventionist for 9th-12th graders. She has taught various levels of geometry, Integrated Math (special education), Algebra 1, and AP Calculus. She previously taught mathematics at Person County High School for a year, mathematics and science at Northern Middle School for a year, and consumer economics and computer skills at The Learning Center (adult education) for a year. Prior to teaching, she worked for nine years in industry as an engineer at a global computer company and later as a programmer/analyst at a large electric utility company. Beth is a county representative on the Association of Teachers of Mathematics in Maine and has served as a professional learning group facilitator, as department chair, and on the district K–12 Math Vertical Team. She has co-facilitated professional development (e.g., book studies) focused on mathematics teaching practices. Beth fosters a classroom community where collaboration, communication, and risk-taking are highly valued. Her redesigned lessons have students working in groups on vertical whiteboards where they are actively engaged in problem-solving—thinking, talking, and doing mathematics—and, based on student feedback, finding enjoyment and success in her classes. Beth earned a B.S. and a M.S. in mechanical engineering and an M.B.A from Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute, and a B.S., summa cum laude, in secondary education mathematics from the University of Maine at Farmington. She is certified in 7–12 mathematics and 7–12 physical science. She is a National Board Certified mathematics teacher.

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