Phyllis Morrison

Rome, GA | 7-12, Mathematics, 2021

What motivates you to contribute to excellence in STEM teaching?

The application of mathematics includes critical thinking, collaboration, problem solving, analysis, adaptation, creativity, time management, and communication-all supporting excellence in STEM teaching. These skills are valued by employers, and my passion for teaching math not only enhances student learning but also strengthens collaboration and instructional practices among colleagues. I inspire students by integrating real-world math with hands-on, project-based learning to keep them engaged.

What has been the most transformative moment that affirmed your impact on STEM education?

A pivotal moment affirming my influence on STEM education occurred as I observed my students engage in discourse after collaborating and evaluating strategies and solutions to a real-world mathematical situation. They demonstrated ownership of mathematical dialogue as they facilitated the discussion. I was able to step aside and simply observe the process unfold. One student commented, "After what he said, I am rethinking my solution and strategy." Some introduced creative approaches using pictures and graphs while others employed algebra. Their enthusiasm and persuasiveness were so strong that I began to question my own method. My students were thrilled to share with me their application of learning while building in a Construction class.

Using your platform as a Presidential Awardee, how do you hope to advance our nation in STEM?

As a 2021 Presidential Awardee, I hope to advance our nation in STEM by encouraging other teachers and my students to be innovative and creative in finding solutions to real-world situations. As a teacher, I aspire to spark students' interests in problem solving, seeing the relevance of math, and extending their learning beyond the classroom. As a nation there is a need for schools to collaborate and connect with industry and employers throughout K-12 schools. STEM brings our learning to life.

Biography

Phyllis Morrison is the 2021 PAEMST Awardee in math for the state of Georgia. She has been an educator for 37 years, spending the last eight years teaching math at Rome Middle School. She previously taught in Alabama for 29 years, including six years of seventh grade math at Jacksonville High School and eight years at Kitty Stone Elementary where she taught sixth grade math in addition to Title I and English Language Learners. She taught one year at Constantine Elementary, 13 years at Belsaw/Mt. Vernon School, and one year at Shiloh Christian School. Phyllis is currently a school board member for Jacksonville City Schools in Jacksonville, AL. As the math interventionist at Rome Middle School, Phyllis’ affection for teaching mathematics not only elevates learning opportunities for students but strengthens collaboration and instructional practices of her colleagues. An assiduous educator, she inspires students to reach their potential. By integrating real-world mathematics and hands-on, project-based learning, Phyllis keeps students engaged. Phyllis provides after-school tutoring support at her school. With a wholehearted desire to see all learners experience success, she is dedicated to do whatever she can to help. She was an Apple Vanguard team member and played an integral role in a 1:1 technology initiative for a school system. She has presented and assisted presentations at state technology conferences. Phyllis is a member of the National Council of Teachers of Mathematics and the Phi Kappa Phi Honor Society. Phyllis earned a B.S. and M.Ed. in elementary education from the University of South Alabama. She earned her Education Specialist degree from Jacksonville State University. Phyllis is certified in middle school mathematics with an in-field gifted certification.

High-resolution version of the teacher profile photograph

The views expressed in awardee profiles are those of the author and do not necessarily reflect the views of NSF or the PAEMST program.