Haverford Science Teacher Wins Presidential Excellence Award

HAVERFORD TOWNSHIP, PA — A teacher in the School District of Haverford Township has been granted the highest honor bestowed by the United States government for K-12 STEM educators.

According to the district, Haverford High School science teacher Dr. Jeremy Tomaszewski has been named a 2021 Presidential Awardee for Excellence in Mathematics and Science Teaching.

Former President Joe Biden announced the awardees for 2021, 2022, and 2023 before leaving office, recognizing outstanding educators from across the country who demonstrate excellence in teaching science, technology, engineering, and mathematics.

Tomaszewski was one of three finalists selected from Pennsylvania in 2021 and was ultimately chosen as the Presidential Awardee for Science.

The Presidential Awardee for Excellence in Mathematics and Science Teaching program, administered by the White House Office of Science and Technology Policy, honors teachers who exhibit deep content knowledge in their subject areas and inspire student success through innovative teaching practices.

With 21 years of experience in education, Tomaszewski has spent the last 16 years at Haverford High School, where he teaches Engineering to Learn; Create, Code, and Construct; Astronomy; and Advanced Placement Physics C (Mechanics, Electricity, and Magnetism).

As Department Chairperson and District Instructional Technology Mentor, he played a crucial role in guiding teachers through the transition to online and hybrid learning using the Canvas Learning Management System.

Outside the classroom, Tomaszewski is deeply committed to science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) outreach. He organizes DISCOVER Day, an annual event where more than 800 elementary students engage in hands-on science, mathematics, and coding activities led by high school students. He also facilitates STEM engagement programs between high school and elementary students throughout the school year.

Tomaszewski’s passion for STEM education extends beyond the school year — he is the owner and director of Discover STEM Camp, Inc., a summer program designed to ignite creativity, critical thinking, and problem-solving skills in young learners through hands-on STEM experiences.

A dedicated educator and lifelong learner, Tomaszewski holds a B.A. in Physics from Franklin and Marshall College, an M.A. in Science Education from Stony Brook University, and a Ph.D. in Science Education from Temple University. He is certified in physics and general science.

Tomaszewski’s selection as a Presidential Awardee highlights his exceptional contributions to STEM education and his commitment to inspiring the next generation of scientists, engineers, and problem-solvers.