WCSD Teacher Named as State Finalist for
Prestigious National Award
Reno, NV (June 7, 2024) – A third grade teacher at Van Gorder Elementary School will represent Nevada as one of two state finalists for the Presidential Awards for Excellence in Mathematics and Science Teaching (PAEMST) for 2024. Sarah Roggensack is a veteran educator who has worked for the Washoe County School District (WCSD) for 19 years as an elementary school teacher, district implementation specialist, and K-8 elementary mathematics Teacher on Special Assignment.
The PAEMST is the highest recognition that a kindergarten through twelfth grade STEM (science, technology, engineering, or mathematics) teacher may receive for outstanding teaching in the United States. Up to 110 teachers are recognized each year. Historically, awardees receive a certificate signed by the President of the United States and a trip to Washington, D.C. to attend a series of recognition events and professional development opportunities. Awardees also receive a $10,000 award from the National Science Foundation.
“Mrs. Roggensack is a highly skilled and dedicated third grade teacher who prioritizes student engagement and active learning in her classroom,” said Van Gorder Elementary School Principal Sean Whisler. “She ensures that her students do the ‘heavy lifting’ during lessons, meaning they are actively involved in making sense of mathematical concepts rather than passively receiving information. This approach helps students build strong mathematical skills and deep understanding. As a member of the Van Gorder team, she shares her insights and reflections with her colleagues during grade-level Professional Learning Communities (PLCs), where they discuss student achievement and identify common trends. This collaborative approach not only enhances her own teaching but also contributes to the overall success of many other students and the professional growth of her colleagues.”
“This is my 22nd year of teaching,” said Roggensack. “I went into it because I love the kids, I love those ‘aha’ moments, and I love the idea of being that person who opens gates to children’s futures and awakens them to the possibilities that are out there in the world. And I do very much feel that mathematics is the big gate opener for children. It’s the thing that keeps some kids from pursuing things that they would love, so having that opportunity in my class to fill that mindset that ‘I am a mathematician and I can figure this out’ just lights up everybody.”
Sarah Roggensack earned her undergraduate degree and master’s degree in elementary education with an emphasis on STEM education at the University of Nevada, Reno. She was selected as the Outstanding Math Educator of the Year by the Northern Nevada Math Council in 2013 and was listed among Who’s Who Among America’s Teachers Award in 2005. She has taught at Hidden Valley, Lincoln Park, and Van Gorder elementary schools in the WCSD.
As an awardee, Roggensack will join an active network of outstanding educators from throughout the nation. Since 1983, more than 5,200 teachers have been recognized for their contributions in the classroom and to their profession. Awardees reflect the expertise and dedication of the nation’s teaching corps, and they demonstrate the positive impact of excellent teachers on student achievement.
Each year, the award criteria alternates years between kindergarten through sixth grade and seventh- through twelfth grade teachers. Award recipients represent schools and organizations from all 50 states, Washington, D.C., Puerto Rico, Department of Defense Education Activity schools, and the U.S. territories including American Samoa, Guam, Commonwealth of the Northern Mariana Islands, and the U.S. Virgin Islands.
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Washoe County School District’s promise is to know every student by name, strength and need so they graduate prepared for the future they choose, and we will deliver on this promise in partnership with our families and community.
