Chemistry teacher Scott Milam is a finalist for the national Presidential Award for Excellence in Mathematics and Science Teaching, a prestigious award presented by the White House to one math and one science teacher from across the country every other year.
Casey Swanson, who teaches psychology and social studies, received the Mary Margaret Moffett Memorial Teaching Award. The award recognizes teachers nationwide who encourage students to consider careers in psychology and demonstrate effective and innovative teaching methods.
Social worker Mary Demarest received the Michigan Association of School Social Workers (Region A) School Social Worker of the Year award.
A 13-year teacher at Plymouth Canton Community Schools, Milam teaches honors and advanced chemistry, and is also a science instructional coach. In addition, he directs workshops for the American Modeling Teachers Association, has published two books and numerous articles, and has a YouTube science channel that has more than 15,000 subscribers.
“I'm humbled and honored to be selected as a finalist for this presidential award, and I must share the credit with so many amazing teachers and administrators who have been supportive throughout the years,” Milam said. “Chemistry is a uniquely challenging subject area to teach and learn due to a substantial amount of abstract information. My classes focus on developing critical thinking skills through chemistry, a subject that impacts our daily lives and ignites curiosity among our students.”
A 17-year Plymouth Canton teacher, Swanson is also a coordinator for the International Baccalaureate (IB) Diploma Program. He teaches at the University Michigan Marsal Family School of Education supporting the development of future teachers at the undergraduate and graduate levels.
“In my classes, I hope students take away a sense of wonderment about learning, about humans, and about how we gain and distribute knowledge itself,” Swanson said. “By studying social and cultural psychology, they can understand and build on our common sense of humanity to promote positive changes in the world. I'm so grateful that our team of teachers, staff and administrators, especially Plymouth High School Principal Cheri Steckel, have been so supportive of creative, forward-looking and effective methods to engage students.”
A social worker in the school district since 2000, Demarest is assigned to Pioneer and Field elementary schools. Her duties include completing special education evaluations, supporting students, and providing crisis support and general support to staff, students and families.
“Without question, the best part of my job is spending time with our students,” Demarest said. “As more families in our community face mental health challenges, I get to help students develop coping skills that can empower them to better manage their feelings and enhance their social and emotional well-being. This ultimately helps our students succeed in the classroom and beyond.”
“At Plymouth-Canton Community Schools, innovative, effective learning happens every day, and Scott, Casey and Mary represent the kind of excellence we offer our students and families,” Superintendent Dr. Monica L. Merritt said. “Plymouth Canton Community Schools is so proud of Scott, Casey and Mary for the recognitions and awards they have so deservedly earned. During Teacher Appreciation Week, we are especially proud of them and all our educators who go above and beyond to prepare students to succeed in life.”
Plymouth Canton Board of Education member Judy Westra said she is thankful the district is a place where teachers and staff provide a world-class education.
“As a parent and as a board member, our district is truly fortunate to have educators like Casey, Scott, Mary and so many others share their talents, expertise and dedication with us every day, Westra said.”
