Betsy Constantine, from Sheridan Elementary School in Tacoma, received the 2013 Mona Bailey Teacher Leadership Award at the Mathematics Engineering Science Achievement (MESA) Board of Directors Dinner in Seattle, Sept. 6.
The award, sponsored by Washington MESA, was established in 2004 to recognize teacher leadership in mathematics, engineering or science. Applicants are evaluated on their leadership and dedication to K-12 students underrepresented in those fields, including African American, Native American, Latino and female students.
At Sheridan Elementary, Constantine uses MESA project-based science, technology, engineering and mathematics enrichment to engage and motivate third through fifth grade students. At the award presentation, she said that she felt honored to be the recipient of such a prestigious award.
Constantine also spoke about the diversity of the students in her classroom and how they have inspired her to use MESA project-based enrichment. She said that she felt humbled and grateful that her work with underrepresented students in the MESA program has a positive impact on their lives and that her desire is to see “every last one of my students succeed.”
Bailey presented the award to Constantine and in her remarks said that “all our students need and deserve great teachers and supporting principals.” Sheridan Elementary School Principal Rebecca Owens was also present at the dinner.
The award honors Bailey’s lifetime dedication to education in the state of Washington where she has been a relentless advocate and served in many capacities including assistant state superintendent of public instruction.
Washington MESA brings resources into K-12 schools to close the academic achievement gap and build a pathway to college and careers in engineering and science. MESA provides enriching opportunities and innovative instructional approaches that align with Washington state and national academic standards.