Elementary school mathematics teacher Lois Womack from Milwaukee, Wisconsin, has garnered a prestigious PAEMST award. Here she is with one of her students. Photo credit: Scripps Local Media
Congratulations to Lois Womack from Milwaukee, Wisconsin, an elementary math teacher who has earned a prestigious Presidential Award for Excellence in Mathematics and Science Teaching (PAEMST).
This PAEMST is a national honor that recognizes the dedication, hard work, and important role that America’s teachers play in supporting learners who will become future STEM professionals, including computer technologists, climate scientists, mathematicians, innovators, space explorers, and engineers. The honor comes with a $10,000 cash prize, a certificate signed by President Joe Biden, and a trip to Washington, DC, to attend an honors ceremony with the President.
Lois currently teaches fourth and fifth grade mathematics at Marvin E. Pratt Elementary School in Milwaukee. She has taught there for the past five years. Prior to that, she worked at Starms Discovery Learning Center for 11 years, six as the school’s Mathematics Teacher Leader and five as a fifth grade teacher. Lois was an Elementary Mathematics Assistant Coordinator and Mathematics Teaching Specialist, supporting mathematics teaching and learning districtwide, for five years. She spent six years at Hi-Mount Community School, where she began her teaching career.
Lois says she is passionate about teaching. Her goal each day is to make the mathematics concepts and skills clear in order to enhance students’ understanding. She also places an emphasis on building relationships and on being a good role model to improve students’ achievement. “I want kids to see me and know they can go into math and science fields and excel,” declares Lois. “I knew I wanted to teach math and break down concepts for kids, and help create that growth mindset, so they are confident about their skills,” she continues.
During her years at Marvin E. Pratt Elementary, Lois was appointed the Math Champion; was the chair of the Mathematics Committee for three years; and provided professional development for staff. Additionally, she conducted professional development sessions on working with advanced learners in mathematics and creating equitable and accessible mathematics classrooms for teachers and administrators throughout the district.
Her PAEMST is not the only recognition Lois has earned. In March 2021, she garnered the Excellence in Education award from the Milwaukee Board of School Directors.
Lois earned her Bachelor’s degree in Education from the University of Wisconsin-Oshkosh and her Master’s degree in Curriculum and Instruction from the University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee.
To read more about Lois Womack, click on this link to Scripps Local Media.
