Teaching is a unique career that provides me the opportunity to influence so many lives from such a small space. The classroom allows me the intimate environment to serve as a role model, a source of inspiration, and in some ways a lifeline for students finding their way. The Presidential Award is a reaffirmation that the hard work and dedication I put in on a daily basis is understood, appreciated, and above all, valued by fellow peers and professionals.     

David Mather Warwick, RI | 7-12, Science, 2011

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

David Mather has taught science at Warwick Veterans Memorial High School for the past 14 years. He also spent his first year teaching at Pilgrim High School in Warwick. David has been instrumental in the development of his school's first biotechnology academy. This 2-year model is currently the only one in Rhode Island that employs a cross-curricular approach to prepare students for careers in biotechnology.  Communicating a love of science and developing strong independent skills in his students are David's hallmarks. He and his wife initiated the school's first afterschool Arch program to help improve students' study skills in all areas of school. Several collegues have helped make this a unique and successful program.  David has represented his school on the Rhode Island Enhanced Technology Project council for the past 2 years. This project, funded by the National Science Foundation, seeks to improve secondary science learning throughout Rhode Island through the use of highly interactive technologies.  David has presented on teaching biotechnology and the development of programs at the Rhode Island Science Teachers annual meeting.  David has a B.A. in biology from the University of Rhode Island and a certificate in teaching secondary science from Rhode Island College.

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