Tomball Intermediate School educator Shatara White honored with nation’s highest award in Science as a PAEMST recipient

THE WOODLANDS, TX -- For the inspiring role she plays in shaping the next generation of STEM leaders, Tomball ISD and Tomball Intermediate School educator Shatara White was recently recognized at the highest level by President Biden as a Presidential Awards for Excellence in Science, Mathematics Teaching (PAEMST) recipient. This honor is coming off a State accolade where she was named a Top 3 Texas Finalist back in 2022.

Established in 1983, PAEMST is the highest award K-12 math and science teachers can receive from the U.S. government.

Prior to being named an Advanced Academic Specialist, White was a dedicated science teacher at TIS and was honored in 2022 as a State Finalist for her ability to inspire a love of learning in science and continue to educate all students at a high-level. In her role now as a Specialist, she works closely with gifted and talented students, challenging them through innovative projects that foster critical thinking, creativity, and empathy.

“Shatara’s dedication to teaching is making an impact in our community and changing the lives of students,” said Dr. Michael Webb, Tomball ISD’s Chief Academic Officer. “Her understanding of science competencies, but most importantly her ability to seamlessly engage students into high level content makes her very special. We are all very proud of her accomplishment.”

HER IMPACT IN TOMBALL ISD
This year, White has introduced impactful, student-centered engineering projects for fifth and sixth grade GT students. The fifth graders are engaged in designing solutions to real-world accessibility issues, addressing specific obstacles faced by individuals with disabilities. This project inspires creativity, empathy, and problem-solving skills while empowering students to make a difference in the lives of others.

Meanwhile, sixth grade students are stepping into the role of city managers, designing multifunctional facilities to address critical needs of the homeless population, blending innovation with social responsibility.

Among her many contributions, White also developed the Wisdom Wizards Challenge, a monthly initiative designed to spark curiosity, enhance problem-solving skills, and promote critical thinking and writing across all grade levels. These thought-provoking challenges, tailored to each grade, are displayed throughout the campus, inspiring students to engage in meaningful intellectual tasks.

In addition to her work with advanced learners, White collaborates with TIS science teams to design lessons that incorporate engaging writing opportunities within the science curriculum.

“She is always willing to model lessons, provide feedback on student work, and support her colleagues in creating a dynamic learning environment,” said Dr. Kelly Marchiando, TIS Principal. “TIS is truly fortunate to have Ms. White, whose unwavering dedication to student success and passion for excellence make her an invaluable part of our community.”

MORE ON THE PRESIDENTIAL AWARD
In January 2025, President Biden announced 336 teachers and mentors (representing honorees from 2022-2025) from around the nation as recipients of the Presidential Awards for Excellence in Mathematics and Science Teaching (PAEMST) and the Presidential Awards for Excellence in Science, Mathematics, and Engineering Mentoring (PAESMEM). These awards honor the vital role that America’s teachers and mentors play in shaping the next generation of technical leaders, including scientists, engineers, explorers, and innovators.

Award recipients over the years represent schools and organizations from all 50 states, Washington D.C., Puerto Rico, Department of Defense Education Activity (DODEA) schools, and the U.S. territories (American Samoa, Guam, Commonwealth of the Northern Mariana Islands, and U.S. Virgin Islands).

Nominees complete a rigorous application process to demonstrate deep content knowledge and an ability to adapt to a broad range of learners and teaching environments.
A panel of distinguished mathematicians, scientists, and educators at the state and national levels assess nominations before recommending awardees to the White House Office of Science and Technology Policy (OSTP). Teachers are selected based on their distinction in the classroom and dedication to improving STEM education.

The National Science Foundation, which manages PAEMST and PAESMEM on behalf of OSTP, provides each recipient $10,000. For more information, please visit PAEMST (www.paemst.org).