I strive to challenge my students to reach their full potential and develop a love of mathematics. Receiving the Presidential Award is a testament to them for giving me new ideas and inspiring me to be innovative. I am fortunate to collaborate with a group of gifted colleagues, and, together, we improve our practice. This award also belongs to them.  It is a great honor and will help me continue to open the eyes of my students to the layer of the world that unveils the mysteries of mathematics.

Elisabeth Jaffe New York, NY | 7-12, Mathematics, 2011

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

Elisabeth Jaffe has taught every level of mathematics, including Advanced Placement Calculus, during her 11-year tenure at Baruch College Campus High School. She currently teaches 11th grade Algebra 2/Trigonometry. Elisabeth believes in encouraging students to recognize mathematics in the world around them and appreciate it as an art form. She initiated an annual conference for students modeled after the National Council of Teachers of Mathematics conferences. Students write proposals for workshops in which they explore and model mathematical concepts outside the classroom. If selected, they present their workshop to their classmates. Elisabeth mentors teachers and leads the Mathematics Department in developing teaching practices conducive to all types of learners. As a Master Teacher in Math for America, Elisabeth also attends and runs many workshops for new and experienced teachers. She has presented at local, state, and national conferences on the topics of questioning, facilitation of group work, students’ methods of communicating mathematical ideas, and project-based learning. Elisabeth has a B.S. in computer science from Columbia University and an M.A. and Ed.D. in mathematics education from Columbia University, Teachers College. She is certified in mathematics secondary school education.

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