Two Oahu elementary teachers have received the prestigious Presidential Award for Excellence in Mathematics and Science Teaching, the state Department of Education announced this morning. 

Laura Fukumoto, a fifth-grade math teacher at Aliamanu Elementary, and Dave Morishige, a fifth-grade science teacher at Mililani Mauka Elementary, got formal word from the White House last month. Today’s DOE press release applauds their innovative approaches to education and their ability to make their subjects relevant to their students through captivating lessons and programs such as robotics.

The award, which is given annually to the country’s top math and science educators, went to 102 teachers this year who were selected by a panel of distinguished educators from across the country. Each recipient receives a $10,000 prize award from the National Science Foundation and can use the money at his or her discretion. 

Photo: Composite photo of Laura Fukumoto and Dave Morishige. (Courtesy of DOE)

— Alia Wong