Wildomar Teacher Named 2020 Presidential Awards Finalist

WILDOMAR, CA — A Wildomar teacher was among six state finalists announced Tuesday for the 2020 Presidential Awards for Excellence in Mathematics and Science Teaching.

Judy Cook, a first-grade teacher at William Collier Elementary School, was named a finalist in the science category. A 28-year educator, Cook also worked as an induction coach and mentored new teachers. She also taught at summer literacy camps that provided support in science, reading and art.

Presented by the National Science Foundation, the Presidential Awards honor teachers who "display subject mastery, appropriate use of instructional methods and strategies, lifelong learning and leadership in education outside the classroom," according to the state Department of Education.

"These teachers are incredible educators, role models and mentors to all those around them, and through mastery of their craft, they inspire students to study math, technology, engineering, and science — including computer science," state Education Secretary Tony Thurmond said. "They're bright stars and prime examples of excellence in our educational system, and we hope that all students can enroll in great STEAM and computer science programs with educators like them, to prepare them for the jobs of tomorrow."

The eventual award winners from each state receive a $10,000 award from the NSF and are traditionally honored at a ceremony in Washington, D.C.