woman smiling

Caddo educator Caroline Landon has been selected as a state finalist for a national award given to math and science educators. The University Elementary teacher is one of three Louisiana educators to be selected as finalists for the Presidential Award for Excellence in Mathematics and Science Teaching (PAEMST).

This award is the highest of honors bestowed by the United States government specifically for K-12 science, technology, engineering, mathematics, and/or computer science teaching. The awards were established by Congress in 1983. The President may recognize up to 108 exemplary teachers each year.

“It is truly an honor to be considered for this award. I have always loved my students and the opportunity that allows me to help prepare them for their futures,” said Landon.

Landon is supported by her administration including University Elementary Principal Kasie Mainiero.

“Mrs. Landon is so good at ensuring her students are set up for success that many of her students are often able to teach the lessons too,” Mainiero said. “I have witnessed the most amazing academic feedback given and received by students in her classroom. It takes a special skill set to get to this level of instruction, and we are so honored to have her at our school and in our district.”

Landon received her bachelor’s and master’s degrees from Northwestern State University. In her more than 10 years as an educator, she has received recognition as a Teacher of the Year, Rookie Teacher of the Year, a mentor teacher and a highly effective educator with training from respected programs like the Ron Clark Academy.

“Mrs. Landon’s determination to be the best was evident from the moment I met her,” said Courtney Thomas, Instructional Coordinator for University Elementary School. “Mrs. Landon ensures that she knows the curriculum backward and forward so that she can provide adequate support to her students. Whatever the challenge teaching brings, Mrs. Landon sets her mind to accomplish her goals and always finds ways for her students to succeed.”

 The PAEMST program recognizes teachers that have both deep content knowledge of the subjects they teach and the ability to motivate and enable students to be successful in those areas. Since the program's inception, more than 5,200 teachers have been recognized for their contributions in the classroom and to their profession. Awardees reflect the expertise and dedication of the nation's educators, and they demonstrate the positive impact of excellent teachers on student achievement. The National Science Foundation administers PAEMST on behalf of The White House Office of Science and Technology Policy.