Valarie Nelson, a passionate educator with the Chamberlain School District, has been named a state-level finalist for the prestigious Presidential Awards for Excellence in Mathematics and Science Teaching (PAEMST) program. This distinguished honor places her among just three K-6 teachers representing South Dakota in this esteemed program.
Nelson, who has been teaching Kindergarten at Chamberlain Elementary for 15 years, holds a Bachelor of Science in Elementary Education and is currently pursuing her Master’s in Leadership and Administration from Northern State University. In addition to her teaching responsibilities, she also serves as the assistant coach for cross country and track and field, earning recognition as the Area 3 Assistant Cross Country Coach of the Year in 2022.
Valarie’s commitment to education extends beyond the classroom, as she has taken on various leadership roles within the community. She has served as a team leader, mentor teacher, and member of the teacher assistance team. Additionally, she has been involved in community service as a former board member of Treehouse Preschool and currently serves on the Chamberlain-Oacoma Early Learning Committee.
Joining Valarie as fellow state-level finalists for PAEMST are Kinlee Stetson from Corral Drive Elementary in Rapid City and Michelle Stumpf from Belle Fourche Middle School. The program recognizes exceptional teaching in mathematics or science for Kindergarten through 12th grade students across the United States. Since its inception in 1983, over 5,000 teachers have been honored for their dedication to these subjects.
Recipients of the Presidential Awards receive numerous benefits, including a citation signed by the President of the United States, a trip to Washington D.C., professional development opportunities, and a $10,000 award from the National Science Foundation to further their educational pursuits.
