The Presidential Award in Science is multifaceted in its meaning for me. While the recognition for choosing the ultimate profession is the highest possible honor, it will open doors to new opportunities to inspire other teachers and students, thus expanding my ability to influence the direction of science education. My desire is not to see science as a “class” but as a way of thinking, challenging all students to be critical thinkers, problem solvers, and global citizens.

Marian DeWane Boise, ID | 7-12, Science, 2009

The official biography below was current at the time of the award.

For the past 20 years, Marian DeWane has taught Advanced Placement (AP) Chemistry, Chemistry, AP Environmental Science, and Physics at Centennial High School. Currently, she is expanding her role to mentoring teachers in AP Chemistry and AP Environmental Science and giving workshops and institutes to teachers worldwide. She shares her activities, strategies, and passion for teaching. Opening doors, Marian allows any student with a desire to enroll in her classes. She has high standards but inspires her students through her willingness to spend evenings and weekends tutoring them. She strives to make science relevant. For example, her environmental students participated in service learning activities such as habitat reconstruction. Marian has served as editor for the College Board Special Focus Series in Chemistry, which has included topics in equilibrium, thermodynamics, and acids and bases. She has authored several manuals on teaching AP Chemistry. Marian has a B.S. from the College of Idaho and an M.S. from the University of Nevada, Reno, both in Biomechanics and Kinesiology, and she has an Education Specialist degree in Educational Leadership from the University of Idaho. Recognized as a master teacher, Marian has been Teacher of the Year and is National Board Certified in chemistry.

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