The Presidential Award is an honor for educators, but truly recognizes the hard work and dedication of our students. I am constantly amazed and inspired by the rigorous analytical thinking and creative problem solving shown by my young scientists as they explore the world. I am honored to receive the award.  It is a great opportunity to collaborate with and learn from other experienced educators in order to continue improving my practice as well as bringing innovative ideas back home. 

Susannah Cowden Boston, MA | 7-12, Science, 2013

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

Susannah Cowden has been an educator for nine years. Most recently, she taught at Roxbury Preparatory Charter School, where she served as eighth grade science teacher, dean of curriculum and instruction, and acting director of operations. She is spending the spring of 2015 in Chile developing her Spanish skills to better support students. As dean, Susannah coached math and science teachers, led professional development, and facilitated science curriculum development across Uncommon Schools Boston. She led a student leadership program, the Anti-Bullying Squad, and outdoor trips for students. From 2009-2013, Susannah taught eighth grade Science and was science department coach. She is passionate about providing inquiry-based, data driven instruction for all students.  Susannah served on the Massachusetts Comprehensive Assessment System (MCAS) Assessment Development Committee and earned a Leadership for Educational Equity School Board Fellowship, as well as a Siemens STEM Institute Fellowship. In 2010, Roxbury Prep won the Intel School of Distinction Award for Middle School Science. Susannah previously taught science at Gallup Junior High School in Gallup, N.M., as a Teach For America corps member. Susannah received her B.A. in environmental studies and geology from Middlebury College and her M.A.T. in secondary education from Western New Mexico University. She is a certified general science teacher.

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