The Presidential Award is the highest honor that I could have ever imagined as a science educator. I am humbled to be selected among so many accomplished peers. By winning such a prestigious award, I would have the opportunity to share my enthusiasm for science with my students and community. My passion for science and student success is the motivating factor for me, and I am hopeful that I can fulfill the honor of this award by serving as a role model for my students and the community.

Mary Servino Bridgeport, CT | K-6, Science, 2012

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

Mary Servino has been a certified educator for 17 years.  She currently teaches at Interdistrict Discovery Magnet School. Previously, she had the privilege of teaching at other urban schools in Bridgeport, CT, and Los Angeles, CA. Mary is the Science Specialist at her school and has been there since the school’s inception 3 years ago. She is a tremendous support to the teachers, aiding their instruction and supporting the project-based curriculum with the students. Mary helped create the school’s “living curriculum” and facilitates monthly science-based professional development for teachers. Mary's support extends outside the school, where she has established local relationships with Beardsley Zoo, the Maritime Aquarium, the Connecticut Audubon Society, the Discovery Museum, and Sacred Heart University. Her other community undertakings include Family Science Nights; the annual Science Fair; and fundraisers for trips, including a 5-day environmental science camp. Mary is fundamental to the Trout Release Program, raising trout eggs and releasing them locally back into the wild. She is enthusiastic about beginning a Robotics and Invention class at her school. Mary has a B.S. in biology from the University of California, Los Angeles and an M.S. in elementary teaching from California State University. She is certified to teach elementary education.

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