The Presidential Award is a symbol of excellence. It stands for hard work, dedication, and commitment. I am so honored and awestruck to be considered for this prestigious award. I am thankful for the support of my family and colleagues. The professional opportunities that I have been afforded to further my knowledge of inquiry-based science have allowed me to help my students become more critical, scientific thinkers. To be recognized for doing what I love to do is truly a dream come true. 

Clare Ornburn Ashaway, RI | K-6, Science, 2012

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

Clare Ornburn has been an educator for more than 20 years and has spent the last 10 years teaching fourth grade at Ashaway Elementary School in the Chariho School District. Previously, she taught at Chariho Middle School and at Solomon Schecter Academy in New London, CT. Clare leads professional development sessions for teachers new to the curriculum across an eight-district collaboration. She also volunteers her time to join other teacher leaders on a board that analyzes and discusses best practice in science. She has allowed teachers from across the state into her classroom to observe her science lessons and has been instrumental in the testing and development of new curriculums. In addition, she has served on the New England Common Assessment science item review committee.  Understanding the importance of science and mathematics, Clare has worked for the past 2 years on a multidistrict committee charged with writing a common mathematics curriculum for the southern portion of the State of Rhode Island to correspond with the Common Core State Standards. She has also worked with the University of Rhode Island to help integrate the Common Core Mathematics Standards into the science curriculum.    Clare has a B.S in human development and family relations from the University of Connecticut and an M.A.T. from Rhode Island College. She is certified in elementary education.

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