Avonworth Teacher Receives National Award

Avonworth math teacher Melissa Costantino-Poruben has been selected by the White House for the Presidential Award for Excellence in Mathematics and Science Teaching (PAEMST) in the Mathematics category, representing the state of Pennsylvania. This highly prestigious honor acknowledges Melissa’s exceptional contributions to the fields of STEM education.

Though Melissa was chosen for this award in 2022, the recognition is being officially presented now. Her unwavering dedication to teaching and her role in shaping the future of science, technology, engineering, and mathematics is truly inspiring. 

As part of this significant achievement, Melissa will receive a $10,000 award.

Melissa says, "The Presidential Award is a recognition for my district and the families of the 2,500+ students I have joyfully served, instructed, encouraged, and cared for throughout my career. This award acknowledges my efforts and the dedication of the team of educators who helped me grow. Special appreciation goes to my curious and diligent students who accept my challenge to see themselves as mathematicians every day. I am humbled by this honor.”

Melissa’s career in education spans more than two decades, all within the Avonworth School District. She began her journey at Avonworth High School in 2000, transitioned to Avonworth Middle School to teach eighth grade from 2001 to 2017, and has been teaching sixth-grade mathematics at Avonworth Elementary School since then.

Her teaching approach is rooted in problem-based learning and collaborative practices, with a focus on solving real-world problems. One notable recent project saw her students engaging in a project-based learning experience, where they renovated their elementary school playground. Melissa is passionate about getting her students, particularly girls, excited about problem-solving, engineering, and computer science.

Melissa’s overarching goal is for every student to view themselves as mathematicians by the end of the year. In addition to her classroom achievements, she is a dedicated union activist, working tirelessly at the local, regional, state, and national levels to advocate for educator rights, improve working conditions, and bring racial and social justice into schools.

Please join us in congratulating Melissa for this well-deserved honor and celebrating the incredible impact she continues to make in the lives of her students and the community.