The Presidential Award signifies recognition at the highest level for my commitment to excellence in mathematics education. This honor validates the innovative approaches I have implemented to engage and inspire my students. It also reflects my dedication to making mathematics instruction engaging, enhancing students' problem-solving skills, and acknowledges the collaborative efforts of my colleagues who have supported and contributed to our shared vision of elevating mathematics education.

Kerry Johnson Lincoln, RI | 7-12, Mathematics, 2023

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

Kerry Johnson has spent the past year teaching mathematics at Narragansett High School. With over a decade of experience, she has made significant contributions to mathematics education at various levels. Kerry began her career teaching mathematics at Cranston High School East for two years, followed by a nine-year tenure at Lincoln Public Schools, where she taught both middle and high school mathematics. It was during her time at Lincoln High School that she received this prestigious award. At Narragansett High School, Kerry has played a pivotal role in developing and implementing a problem-solving curriculum for Algebra 1 and Geometry, utilizing pedagogies from the Building Thinking Classroom framework. Her innovative approach to teaching mathematics focuses on real-world applications and inquiry-based lessons, making the subject engaging and relevant for her students. Kerry is dedicated to professional collaboration and growth. She opens her classroom to colleagues from her district, neighboring districts, and Math Specialists from the Rhode Island Department of Education to observe her problem-based instruction. This collaborative spirit extends to her previous role at Lincoln Public Schools, where she served as a member of the Math Curriculum Team and as a curriculum leader. Kerry's involvement in state and national conferences underscores her commitment to staying at the forefront of educational best practices. Kerry earned her B.A. in mathematics from the University of Rhode Island, where she also obtained her teaching certification through the MA/TCP program. She is a National Board Certified Teacher in Mathematics - Early Adolescence, reflecting her dedication to excellence in teaching.

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