My students are not passive learners of science, they ARE scientists. They embrace the idea that they are empowered to own their learning. In addition to creating a love of learning within my students, I am intentional about equipping students with wonder, teamwork strategies, and problem-solving skills for jobs that may not exist yet! The Presidential Award is such an honor and represents the expectations that my students have--always aim for the highest, be creative, and be a team player.

Kareen Borders Lakebay, WA | 7-12, Science, 2009

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

Kareen Borders teaches science and an elective aerospace class at Key Peninsula Middle School in the Peninsula School District. In addition to 8 years in her current position, Kareen taught middle school science for 8 years in California. Kareen is the team lead for the NASA Explorer School Team at Key Peninsula Middle School. Her aerospace students have competed in and won student science investigations for the past 6 years. She is also a Spitzer Space Telescope teacher and a Widefield Infrared Survey Explorer (WISE) Telescope ambassador. Kareen spearheads professional development experiences for others. She and her team developed and led workshops for the Peninsula School District, American Institute of Aeronautics and Astronautics, and Arecibo Observatory. Kareen has published abstracts with the American Astronomical Society and the International Committee on Space Research. She is the lead National Board facilitator for her district, supporting other teachers in their pursuit of National Board Certification. Kareen has a B.A. in Psychology and a B.S. in Biology from the University of California, Irvine and an M.A. in Education from California Polytechnic University at San Luis Obispo. She is currently working toward an Ed.D. in Educational Leadership. She is National Board Certified in early adolescence science.

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