Westmoor Teacher Nominated for National Award

Sarah Wippman, a teacher at Westmoor Elementary School, was recently named a state finalist in the prestigious Presidential Award for Excellence in Mathematics and Science Teaching, according to a District 28 news release.

She said inspiring students and allowing them to play and explore is never disappointing.

“They always come up with something new and ingenius,” said Wippman, a 30-year teaching veteran. “Sixth graders like to play and explore as much as kindergartners.”

Bringing technology into the classroom gives children the opportunity to think, adapt, change and persevere to solve complex problems, Wippman said.

“I really value student motivation and the innocence of learning. All kids want to learn and discover, and they need the opportunity to do that in open-ended settings.”

The Presidential Award is the highest recognition for outstanding teaching that a kindergarten through 12th grade mathematics or science teacher may receive in the United States. Wippman is one of three elementary math teachers who was recognized in Illinois this year. As a state finalist, she is a nominee for the national award, which will be announced in July.

“It’s really the kids who won the award, their ability to think outside the box and collaborate. They’re really the ones who deserve the credit,” Wippman said.

Photo: Mrs. Wippman is congratulated by her students at Westmoor School for being a state finalist in the Presidential Award for Excellence in Mathematics and Science Teaching.