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President Obama honors Virginia Beach science teacher

Posted at 10:45 AM, Aug 24, 2016
and last updated 2016-08-24 13:02:31-04

Camilla Walck (Photo: Presidential Awards for Excellence in Mathematics and Science Teaching website)

VIRGINIA BEACH, Va. – Princess Anne High School science teacher Camilla Walck is one of the 213 recipients of the prestigious Presidential Award for Excellence in Mathematics and Science Teaching.

“Receiving the Presidential Award is truly a great honor. I am blessed to be able to have a job I love and to help educate the leaders of tomorrow. Without the support of my family, friends, and colleagues I would not be the teacher I am today. The students I have taught have each left their imprint on me and they continue to motivate me to be the best teacher I can be. I feel that education is a life long journey and the key to success. This award reflects my dedication to teaching and learning,”Walck said.

Walck has taught science at Princess Anne for 21 years. She has taught 12th grade students in the International Baccalaureate (IB) program for 17 years and is the author of an IB Biology review book.

Walck earned her associate degree in science from Tidewater Community College. She earned her Bachelor’s of Science, Master’s of Science and Ph.D. from Old Dominion University.

The recipients of the award are K-12 science and mathematics teachers from across the U.S.

“The recipients of this award are integral to ensuring our students are equipped with critical thinking and problem-solving skills that are vital to our Nation’s success,” President Obama said. “As the United States continues to lead the way in the innovation that is shaping our future, these excellent teachers are preparing students from all corners of the country with the science, technology, engineering, and mathematics skills that help keep us on the cutting-edge.”

The awardees were chosen by a panel of distinguished scientists, mathematicians, and educators after a state level selection process.

Each nomination year of the award alternates between teachers in kindergarten through 6th grade level and 7th through 12th grade teachers.

Winners receive a $10,000 award from the National Science Foundation. The educators will receive their awards at a ceremony in Washington, D.C. on September 8.