by Ellyn Wexler, Staff Writer
South Lakes High School mathematics teacher Emily Burrell, a 23-year veteran educator, has received one of the highest honors in STEM education: the Presidential Award for Excellence in Mathematics and Science Teaching (PAEMST). Announced by President Joe Biden on Jan. 13, this national recognition celebrates outstanding educators who are shaping the next generation of innovators.
For Burrell, the award is both a personal and professional milestone. “This award uplifts the teaching profession and recognizes how mathematics and science teachers guide the next generation of innovators,” she said. “It reflects the supportive families, communities, school systems, and enthusiastic students and colleagues with whom I’ve been privileged to work.”
A Journey of Dedication
The application process for the PAEMST was extensive. Nominated by colleagues in the Instructional Services Department, Burrell embarked on a rigorous process that involved detailed writing and the creation of a lesson video. With the support of department chair Evan Millar, former principal Kim Retzer, and colleague Jen Allard, she became a state finalist in spring 2023 and was later recognized by the Virginia Board of Education. It took months before she heard the decision, which came when President Biden announced the winners.
Burrell’s recognition delighted her students. “They’ve been very supportive, congratulating me in class and in the hallway,” she said. “I want them to understand that this award might have my name on it, but it also celebrates South Lakes High School and all the excellent work being done by our teachers and students.”
Transforming Math Education
Burrell’s teaching philosophy challenges the traditional model of passive learning. “Sitting, listening, and taking notes doesn’t actually help students learn,” she explained. “A lot of students like this routine because it's easy and gives a false sense of understanding. But real learning happens when students engage as active participants.”
To foster this, she employs collaborative and interactive strategies, including “Building Thinking Classrooms,” where students work at whiteboards in randomly assigned groups. This dynamic method encourages peer teaching and helps students develop confidence in problem-solving. She also uses the jigsaw expert structure, where students become specialists in different topics before teaching their peers.
Her commitment to equity in education has been a driving force behind her success. In her Algebra, Functions, and Data Analysis course, she focuses on students who have been marginalized by traditional math instruction, using real-world applications and project-based assessments to make learning more accessible.
Inspiring a Love for Math
Burrell knows that many students struggle with math anxiety, and she makes it her mission to change their mindset. “Some students have built a false narrative that they can’t do math. By high school, the only way to convince them otherwise is to prove them wrong,” she said. “I ask them to explain their reasoning because I want them to know that their understanding is a valid starting place.”
Her advice to students pursuing math or science? “Math isn’t a race.” She warns against rushing through material just for acceleration, encouraging students instead to master fundamental concepts and explore fields like statistics and data science alongside traditional calculus tracks.
A Lifelong Learner and Mentor
Burrell’s passion for education is rooted in strong mentorship. She credits Dr. Laurell Wiersma, her first mentor at Wakefield High School, with guiding her through the early years of teaching. Now, she passes that wisdom on to new educators. “Take care of yourself, take care of your loved ones, and take care of your students,” she advises. “Collaborate with colleagues, keep learning, and refuse to give up on any student.”
With a B.A. in Mathematics from the University of Virginia, an M.Ed. in Secondary Mathematics from George Mason University, and a Master’s Certificate in Education Policy, Burrell continues to be an advocate for innovative teaching.
At the heart of her work is a simple joy: seeing students succeed. “I love it when students celebrate their successes, big and small,” she said.
With her dedication to equity, engagement, and excellence, Emily Burrell is not just an award-winning teacher—she’s a game-changer in math education.
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