On Jan.6, President Barack Obama honored SeaTac teacher Michele Brees for excellence in mathematics and science teaching.

Brees of Burien was selected to receive the Presidential Award for Excellence in Mathematics and Science Teaching by a panel of distinguished scientists, mathematicians and educators.

This honor is awarded annually to pre-college-level science and math teachers who show innovation and excellence in their methods to prepare students for 21st century careers.

"I would like to extend my congratulations to Michele Brees for being recognized for her dedication to provide students with quality math and science education," said Sen. Patty Murray. "A strong background in math and science is the cornerstone of our students' education and will help them be competitive in a 21st century global economy."

Brees said, The Presidential Award for Mathematics and Science Teaching is an absolute honor for me. I became a teacher because I wanted to share my love of learning with children. Each day that I am able to teach mathematics and science concepts to my students is a great day.

"This recognition is for them as much as for me, because without my students and colleagues, who continually teach me so much, I would have never been able to receive this award.

Brees has taught mathematics and science for more than 10 years. For the past four years, she has taught fifth grade mathematics and other subjects at Madrona Elementary School in SeaTac.

Brees has facilitated the training and implementation associated with the new mathematics curriculum, Investigations, and is considered a strong leader in improving mathematics instruction.

She was among the first teachers to be trained in First Steps materials and subsequently has provided training to other teachers.

A participant in the Math Studio Residency, she is praised as a dedicated educator who has had a tremendously positive impact on the mathematics instructional practices in the school and district. Colleagues laud her effective presentations and workshops.

Brees's classroom supports inquiry, collaboration, and risk taking. Students flourish in her classroom, interacting with each other frequently and learning to explain, justify, and generalize their mathematics reasoning.

She holds individual and small-group conferences to help students deepen their understanding of concepts and seeks better ways to meet the needs of her students and to apply best practices in mathematics teaching.

In addition to her classroom responsibilities, Brees serves on the district Math Summit Committee and plays an active role in planning and conducting the family mathematics and literacy nights.

She has also participated in the revision of the science curriculum to meet State and district standards, mathematics instruction development, and school safety activities.

She is involved in extracurricular programs and facilitates the Walking in Steps for Health program.

Brees is also the recipient of the Elementary Teacher of the Year award in the Highline district.

Brees has a B.S. from Brigham Young University and an M.Tech in Education from Lesley College. She is certified in kindergarten through eighth grade elementary education.

Georgia Boatman of Kirkland was the only other winner from the state.