June 14, 2019
For Immediate Release
CONTACT:
Office of Communications
301-952-6001
communications@pgcps.org
UPPER MARLBORO, MD – Greenbelt Middle School science teacher Manuela Pagunsan is the recipient of the 2019 Christa McAuliffe Outstanding Teacher Award from Prince George’s County Public Schools (PGCPS).
Pagunsan, a 32-year veteran educator, teaches seventh-grade science and biology and coaches the Science Bowl team. She previously worked as a science teacher, department chair and science fair coordinator at Oxon Hill Middle School.
“Ms. Pagunsan’s ongoing dedication to building her skills and making science fun for students epitomizes the spirit of this award,” said Dr. Monica Goldson, Interim Chief Executive Officer. "Getting students engaged in STEM subjects goes a long way towards developing future scientists, engineers and mathematicians."
Pagunsan was one of 20 teachers selected for scholarships to the STEM-focused administrative certification program, a partnership between PGCPS and the University of Maryland. She has focused recent professional development efforts on teaching science to Talented and Gifted (TAG) students, special education, and integrating technology into the classroom.
“Ms. Pagunsan is a hardworking, well-organized, committed teacher who has given much to our pupils,” said Dr. Solomon Osofero, Greenbelt Science Department Chair. “She enjoys the respect of her pupils, their parents, her fellow teachers and the school administration.”
Pagunsan will be honored at the annual Employee Recognition Dinner on June 14 at Martin’s Crosswinds in Greenbelt. Her name will be added to the Christa McAuliffe award plaque at the Sasscer Administration Building in Upper Marlboro.
Other nominees included Jennifer Findlater, Benjamin Tasker Middle School; Shanita Graves, CMIT Academy-South Middle High Public Charter School; Benora McCain-Wigfall, CMIT Academy–North Elementary Public Charter School; Romelita Panga, Dodge Park Elementary; Stephanny Powell-Williams, Melwood Elementary; Gillian Richards, Accokeek Academy and Carolyn Sauer, Kenilworth Elementary.
The Christa McAuliffe Award honors an outstanding educator based on competitive standards of excellence established by other teachers. The award is a tribute to McAuliffe, the Teacher-In-Space who lost her life aboard the space shuttle Challenger in January 1986. McAuliffe taught in Prince George’s County from 1971 to 1978.
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