Emerald Ridge High School math teacher Tracie Shepard is one of eight teachers from Washington who has been selected as a state-level finalist for the Presidential Award for Excellence in Mathematics and Science Teaching.

Shepard, who has been teaching in the Puyallup School District since 1989, is one of four state-level finalists for the national award in mathematics. Another four teachers throughout the state are finalists for the science recognition.

“These eight amazing teachers are not only innovating in their own classrooms, they are also inspiring innovation in their colleagues,” said state Superintendent Randy Dorn. “The leadership and mentoring of teachers like these make Washington a standout in STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math) education. Their efforts will benefit students for many years.”

The finalists were selected during the summer by a statewide committee comprised of content-area experts and award-winning teachers, according to information released October 23 by the Office of the Superintendent of Public Instruction.

The Presidential Award for Excellence in Mathematics and Science Teaching is the highest honor for a K-12 mathematics or science teacher. Each year, the award selection alternates between elementary and secondary teachers.

To be considered, teachers must be nominated and complete a comprehensive application. A state selection committee reviews completed applications and may forward up to five nominations from mathematics and up to five from science to the national program for consideration.

Shepard teaches calculus, pre-calculus, and Collection of Evidence (COE) algebra classes. She is also the school’s math department chairperson.