Receiving the Presidential Award is a profound validation of my calling to be a teacher. It feels strange, however, to accept this honor on my own. For me, teaching is a collaborative experience between teachers, students, parents, mentors, and administration. Every day, I am humbled by the challenges, brilliance, and resilience of those around me. I am deeply honored to receive this award and am grateful to all the people who have been a part of this incredible journey.

Sara Rubio Seattle, WA | 7-12, Mathematics, 2023

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

Sara Rubio has been an educator for more than 14 years and has been teaching middle school mathematics for 12 years. She started her career teaching STEM at Madison Middle School for two years and is currently teaching seventh grade mathematics and sixth grade Mathematics Empowerment at Robert Eagle Staff Middle School. Sara is passionate about helping students see their potential in mathematics and works relentlessly to accomplish that goal. She has been an active member of the mathematics empowerment professional learning community for eight years. This group of educators continuously learns about and implements innovative, research-based instructional strategies to empower students in mathematics. As the Mathematics Department Head, Sara fosters collaboration in professional learning communities by looking at student work, reflecting on what students understand, determining what is next for them to learn, and improving lessons to meet the diverse needs of all students. Sara’s love of teaching goes beyond the classroom. She started as a dance team moderator when she was a student teacher and continues to share her love of dance while supporting various other student activities. Her commitment to education also shines through her leadership roles in district-level professional development and mathematics conference presentations. Sara has a B.A., magna cum laude, in mathematics from Seattle University. She earned a master's degree in teaching, cum laude, from the University of Washington. She is certified in secondary mathematics and is a National Board Certified Teacher.

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