Tyler ISD proudly announces that David Howard, a science teacher at Tyler Legacy High School, has been selected as one of only six Texas finalists for the 2025 Presidential Awards for Excellence in Mathematics and Science Teaching (PAEMST). Mr. Howard is one of three science educators chosen for this honor, the highest national recognition for K–12 educators in the fields of science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM).
Mr. Howard teaches AP Biology and Dual Credit Biology at Legacy and is known not only for his dynamic instruction in the classroom but also for his extensive involvement in campus life. He serves as a co-sponsor for both the Student Council and the National Honor Society. Beyond the school walls, Mr. Howard plays an active role in STEM education at the national level. He is an AP Biology consultant for the College Board, where he conducts professional development sessions for teachers, and he also works as a table leader and reader for the AP Biology exam each summer.
"It is a tremendous honor to receive this award,” said Howard. “I am very proud to represent the Tyler community as well as the staff and students at Legacy High School. I have the privilege of working alongside exceptional educators every day as we strive to positively impact the lives of students in our community. I am deeply grateful to those who made this possible and who have supported me throughout my time in the Tyler Independent School District."
The PAEMST program, administered by the National Science Foundation on behalf of the White House Office of Science and Technology Policy, recognizes outstanding educators who demonstrate deep content knowledge and the ability to motivate and inspire students in STEM fields. The Awards were established by Congress in 1983.
Finalists will now move forward in the national selection process, where one mathematics teacher and one science teacher from each state will be chosen to receive the Presidential Award.
Tyler ISD congratulates Mr. Howard on this well-deserved recognition and applauds his continued dedication to excellence in science education.
For more information, contact Jennifer Hines at Jennifer.Hines@TylerISD.org.