The California Space Authority (CSA) began the annual SpotBeam Awards Dinner ceremony with a special caveat in 2006, by recognizing two distinguished California teachers - Margaret Cagle and Caleb Cheung. Cagle and Chung were selected by a national panel as award recipients for the Presidential Awards for Excellence in Mathematics and Science Teaching (PAEMST) and in recognition of this, the California Space Authority presented each with a certificate to fly weightless aboard a Zero Gravity Corporation flight.
Ms. Margaret Cagle was named the mathematics award recipient. She teaches eighth grade honors algebra, geometry, and French at the Lawrence Gifted/Highly Gifted Magnet School in Chatsworth, California. Caleb Cheung has been selected as the science award recipient. Mr. Chung is a former seventh grade life science teacher at Frick Middle School, California and is currently a mentor for other science teachers.
“I am grateful for this opportunity to represent California teachers and promote the importance of science education,” Mr. Cheung noted upon receipt of his recognition.
PAEMST has honored more than 3,000 K-12 math and science teachers nationwide since the program’s inception in 1983. Award winners are selected from finalists submitted by their state. The winners receive a $10,000 award, a citation from the President, and a paid trip to Washington, D.C. for a series of recognition events.
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