Hergert receives teaching award

Recently, the White House named Emmy Hergert, a teacher at Thermopolis Middle School, a recipient of the Presidential Awards for Excellence in Mathematics and Science Teaching (PAEMST). PAEMST are the nation's highest honors for teachers of science, technology, engineering, and mathematics.

Emmy Hergert is a seventh grade mathematics teacher and instructional coach at TMS. She began her 14-year career in education teaching at Saratoga Elementary School for two years followed by Ralph Witters Elementary School for three years. She has spent the last nine years in her current role.

When entering Hergert's classroom, the positivity for learning and mathematics is palpable. Emmy models kindness, respect, and operates a classroom where ALL students are inspired to achieve grade level learning or higher by standard and skill. Students in Emmy's class thrive in mathematics, regardless of background, socioeconomic status, race, gender, or current abilities, due to the collective commitment that all means all.

Hergert serves as a curriculum leader, mentor, and instructional coach. In this role, she works with teachers to vertically align curriculum, increase effectiveness of intervention cycles, and build teacher confidence in instructional practice. Emmy is an advocate for high levels of learning for all students across the state by serving on multiple state-level committees and the Wyoming Department of Education's Level Up Program. It is evident that Emmy is deeply committed to supporting both teachers and students on their educational journeys.

In 2020, Hergert published an article in the AllThingsPLC (Professional Learning Community) magazine titled, "Why I Love PLCs More Than Numbers." She has presented at the National Association of Gifted Children Conference and published an article in the Journal for the Education of the Gifted.

Hergert earned a B.A. in elementary education and an M.S. in natural sciences with an emphasis in middle level mathematics from the University of Wyoming. She is National Board Certified in Mathematics Early Adolescence.

"Receiving the PAEMST award is a tremendous honor, as it is a prestigious recognition made up of elite educators. The rigorous application process prompted reflection and professional growth in my teaching methods. This achievement reaffirmed my dedication to mathematics education and opened doors to collaborate with educators across my district and state, ultimately enhancing the educational experiences of countless students. Thank you for supporting and recognizing teachers," said Hergert.

With this award, Hergert will receive $10,000 from the National Science Foundation; a certificate signed by the President; a trip to Washington, D.C. to celebrate her accomplishments; and join a prestigious cadre of more than 5,200 teacher-alumni from across the nation. While in D.C., honored teachers will participate in professional development activities and network with fellow STEM educators from across the nation.

Hergert represents the most outstanding teachers America has to offer and serves as both a model and an inspiration to students and fellow teachers.

For more information about PAEMST, please call 833-673-3273 or email the PAEMST Team at paemst@nsf.gov.