Amy Kinnett’s numerous classroom leadership qualities have netted her the top honor a math teacher can receive in the nation.
 
Kinnett learned Jan. 13 that she had collected the Presidential Award for Excellence in Mathematics and Science Teaching (PAEMST). The PAEMST is the highest award that K-12 teachers in STEM subjects can earn from the United States government.
 
Kinnett said it is fulfilling to guide students on their math adventures.
 
“I love helping kids when they feel like something is hard and they can’t succeed, and then getting past that challenge and seeing how proud they are of themselves,” Kinnett said. “I love helping them over that barrier.”
 
Kinnett began teaching at LPS in August 2007 and has led students at Meadow Lane Elementary School, Lakeview Elementary School and Dawes Middle School.
 
Dawes Principal Liz Miller said Kinnett’s dedication to her craft has paid dividends for many Diamondbacks.
 
“Amy’s commitment to maximizing each lesson ensures each student grows in their math knowledge and skills,” Miller said.
 
An e-mail from Washington, D.C., entered Kinnett’s inbox early in the morning on Jan. 13 announcing her PAEMST selection.
 
“It came out of nowhere, and it was a very big surprise,” Kinnett said. “I felt really proud and just amazed to be included in that group of people.”
 
Kinnett said she wants to continue helping students experience exponential growth in every aspect of their lives.
 
“It’s exciting for them because then they can take that confidence on to the next thing they do,” Kinnett said.
 
Learn more about our math curriculum at home.lps.org/math.
 
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