The Presidential Award signifies that I am providing an equitable and thriving learning environment for my students. This award necessitates reflecting on my teaching practices and recognizing my students' achievements. I am inspired by my students' motivation and the moments when concepts start to click for them. This is why receiving validation and recognition on such a prestigious level is profoundly fulfilling as an educator.

Gretchen Zaldana APO, AE | DoDEA | 7-12, Science, 2023

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

Gretchen Zaldana is a seventh grade science teacher for the Department of Defense Education Activity (DoDEA) at Vicenza Middle School in Italy. She has taught in the Vicenza community for the past 12 years with a total of 21 years in the DoDEA school system. Prior to Vicenza Middle School, Gretchen spent eight years at Vicenza Elementary school. Before teaching in Italy, Gretchen spent 10 years in Japan at Shirley Lanham Elementary School and Yokosuka Middle School. Gretchen continuously challenges her students to "think outside of the box" with hands-on experiences steeped in technology and programs that feed into curiosity. She works to incorporate technology and investigation tools into her science curriculum. Students have the opportunity to analyze and assess data collected in various forums. Gretchen has served as the Science Collaboration Facilitator, Chemical Hygiene Officer, Case Study Committee Chair, Vicenza Complex Union President, and is currently in the role of Continuous School Improvement (CSI) Chair of Accreditation at Vicenza Middle School. Gretchen's experience as a facilitator of the seventh grade regional science weekly collaboration provides a wealth of shared knowledge and experience with her peers, resulting in greater student achievement. Discussion and analysis of student work ensures more differentiation and equity in classes. Gretchen earned a B.S. in education as well as an M.A. in education in secondary science, both from Brenau University. She is certified to teach both elementary and middle school. Additionally, she holds certification in pre-K–12th grade special education.

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