A Fayette County high school math teacher has been named a 2017-2018 state finalist for the prestigious Presidential Award for Excellence in Mathematics and Science Teaching, and is now in the running to represent Georgia at the national award level.

Suzette Weinhardt, who teaches pre-calculus and accelerated geometry and algebra II at Sandy Creek High, is among five teachers from Georgia who will be considered for the 2018 Presidential Award.

The award, administered by the National Science Foundation, is the highest honor given by the United States government specifically for kindergarten through 12th grade mathematics or science teaching. Awardees have deep content knowledge of the subjects they teach, and the ability to motivate and enable students to be successful in those areas. They are also considered peer role models for other teachers and academic leaders in their schools and communities.

Established by Congress in 1983, the program allows each state to select up to five finalists in mathematics and science. Finalists from all 50 states and U.S. jurisdictions become contenders for the national award. The President is authorized to give up to 108 awards each year.

 If selected as a national winner, Weinhardt will receive a $10,000 award to be used at her discretion, and will receive an all-expense paid trip to Washington, D.C. for an awards ceremony, as well as educational and celebratory events.