Deborah Bradburn

Each year the President of the U.S. recognizes outstanding K-12 science and math teachers throughout the country. One math and one science educator is chosen from each state who exemplifies deep content knowledge combined with the ability to motivate students in science and math.

Mental Math is a daily activity for Deborah Bradburn’s students. They solve mathematics problems without using paper and then are asked to share their strategies for solving the problems. “I love mathematics and want my students to love it, too; so every day I try to make learning fun and get my students to value math the way I do,” said Bradburn. She also relates mathematics to real life and teaches her students to keep trying, whether or not they have the right answers.

My students are held to high expectations and supported so that they can reach their individual potential. There is a mutual respect between my students and myself so that everyone is comfortable to take risks. I teach my students that sometimes we can find the answers to our questions and other times we need to try again and keep searching. Students will continue to try to learn if they feel their ideas and work are valued, even if they are not always correct.