Woodbridge Math Teacher Kristie Donavan was recently named a recipient of the Presidential Awards for Excellence in Mathematics and Science Teaching (PAEMST). She is one of only six educators in California to receive this award. Donavan earned recognition as a finalist for the award in both 2021 and 2023.
Established in 1983 by the White House Office of Science and Technology Policy (OSTP), this award is the highest honor for K-12 math and science teachers in the U.S., recognizing educators from all 50 states. Recipients undergo a rigorous application process showcasing their deep content knowledge, adaptability to diverse learners and commitment to advancing STEM education.
“I want to extend my heartfelt congratulations to Kristie Donavan on this incredible honor,” said IUSD Superintendent Terry Walker. “This well-deserved recognition is a testament to her dedication, excellence and the lasting impact she has on her students and colleagues. Kristie embodies the dedication and commitment of all the outstanding teachers at IUSD, who work tirelessly to inspire and prepare our students for a bright future.”
A Leader and Mentor
Kristie Donavan has been a dedicated mathematics educator for 17 years. She began her teaching career at Woodbridge High School, where she taught for seven years before serving as the High School Math Teacher on Special Assignment (TOSA) for the Irvine Unified School District (IUSD) for four years. In 2017, she returned to Woodbridge High School, where she currently teaches Advanced Placement (AP) Calculus BC and Math Foundations to students in grades 9-12.
Known for her unwavering support of both students and educators, Kristie has designed and implemented accelerated mathematics courses and strategic intervention programs to meet diverse student needs. She has also been instrumental in providing professional learning opportunities for teachers across IUSD, sharing her expertise in student-centered strategies and routines that promote active engagement and critical thinking in the classroom.
Kristie has presented on a variety of topics, including standards progressions, mathematics intervention, effective instructional strategies and Building Thinking Classrooms, at prestigious events such as the California Mathematics Council annual conferences and the National Council of Teachers of Mathematics annual conference. She is slated to be a featured speaker at the upcoming CMC-South Annual Conference.
Her contributions to education have earned her significant recognition, including being named IUSD's High School Teacher of the Year and a semifinalist for Orange County Teacher of the Year.
“I am incredibly honored to be among this inspiring group of educators. The Presidential Award is a reflection of the incredible colleagues, mentors and students I’ve had over the years, who have pushed me to learn and grow and have shaped me into the teacher I am today,” reflected Donavan. This award inspires me to continue to advocate for high-quality mathematics education for all students and validates my beliefs in productive struggle, mathematical discourse and student-centered learning.”
The National Science Foundation, which manages the award on behalf of OSTP, provides each recipient with $10,000.
Congratulations Mrs. Donavan!