Texas teacher Kristin “Kristy” Butler earns PAEMST award

Texas middle school teacher Kristin “Kristy” Butler has been named a recipient of the prestigious 2020 Presidential Award for Excellence in Mathematics and Science Teaching (PAEMST). Photo Credit: Kristy Butler

I am always excited to share the story of an exceptional teacher who has earned  recognition for their work in the classroom. Kristin Butler, an elementary school teacher from Trophy Club, Texas, has earned such recognition. In 2020, she garnered a Presidential Award for Excellence in Mathematics and Science Teaching (PAEMST).

Kristen, who prefers to be called “Kristy,” has been an educator for the past 18 years. She has spent the last three years teaching sixth grade mathematics at Medlin Middle School. Prior to that, she taught mathematics at Travis Middle School for ten years. There she served two years as a mathematics instructional coach and interventionist. The first three years of Kristy’s teaching career were spent at Tannahill Intermediate School.

Kristy is best-known for building relationships with students and creating innovative, technology-driven lessons. She has a growth mindset, and is continuously looking for ways to engage and relate to her students. Her role as a Pear Deck Regional Coach has strengthened her passion for using technology in her classroom.

Kristy’s campus involvement goes beyond the classroom. She serves on her school’s committees for Campus Improvement, Character Council, and Teacher Appreciation. She has spent many years writing curriculum and serving as Mathematics Department Chair. She presents professional development workshops at her school and at district conferences, and she also  serves as her district’s New Teacher Mentor Coordinator. Kristy has served as a member of the National Council of Teachers of Mathematics. In addition, she has also completed the Teaching Trust Ed Fellows Leadership Program.

Kristy earned her Bachelor’s degree in Mathematics Education from Texas Christian University, and her Master’s of Education in Curriculum and Instruction in Mathematics from the University of Texas at Arlington. She is also certified to teach English as a second language.