CITY OF INDUSTRY – Over the last 17 years, Orange Grove Middle School science teacher Terri Serey has developed a knack for delivering a collaborative and hands-on experience for students and creating a deeper understanding and excitement around science, technology, engineering, arts and mathematics (STEAM) learning.

For her unique teaching methods and strategies, leadership and lifelong learning in STEAM education, Serey has been named one of six finalists from California for the 2022 Presidential Awards for Excellence in Mathematics and Science Teaching (PAEMST).

“I am honored to be nominated as a California finalist and thankful to have a support system that allows me to explore new things and support my students each year,” Serey said. “Thank you to Principal Dr. David Nieto and the entire Orange Grove family for constantly providing me with the tools and encouragement to help our students grow in STEAM.”

Before she became a top-performing science instructor, Serey was a Hacienda La Puente Unified student, attending Los Robles Elementary School, Orange Grove Middle School and Los Altos High School. She returned to Orange Grove Middle School in 2005, where she began teaching all levels of science and coaching the Science Olympiad team.

Serey has also presented at several California Teacher Association conferences, the 2022 California Schools to Watch Conference and the 2021 STEAM Symposium, aiming to help educators ignite student passion for learning and support the social-emotional development of the education community.

“Ever since I was a child, I loved science and would constantly ask questions about the world around me,” Serey said. “As a teacher, I love that I get to continue that passion for learning and explore new teaching methods, think aloud and get creative with my students to find solutions following the five dimensions of teaching.”

Once selected, the PAEMST recipients will receive a certificate signed by the President of the United States, a $10,000 special award from the program administrators at the National Science Foundation and an all-expenses-paid trip to an awards ceremony in Washington, D.C.

“Congratulations to Mrs. Serey on this remarkable honor that recognizes her hard work in STEAM education and commitment to Orange Grove students for nearly two decades,” Superintendent Dr. Alfonso Jiménez said. “We appreciate Mrs. Serey and all of our devoted teachers for bringing creativity, problem-solving and a personalized learning experience to all Hacienda La Puente Unified students.”

PHOTO CAPTION:

HLPUSD_SCIENCEAWARD: Orange Grove science teacher and 2022 Presidential Awards for Excellence in Mathematics and Science Teaching finalist Terri Serey teaches a density lab with sixth-grade science students Angel Cazares and Saori Blancas Alejandre.