Troy High School math teacher Cliff Bara was invited by the National Science Foundation (NSF) to attend a recent summit on the federal government’s role in education.

Bara has been with the Troy middle and high school since 1985.

“He is one of the best teachers I have encountered,” Jacob Francom, Troy middle- and high school vice principal said.

“There is no award high enough for teachers like him who day-in-and-day-out, work hard to help our students succeed.”

“He makes mathematics and science come alive in his classroom and is able to really help students understand and become excited about learning.”

In 1999, Bara received a Presidential Award for Excellence in Math and Science Teaching (PAEMST). The award is the highest recognition that a kindergarten through 12th-grade mathematics or science teacher may receive for outstanding teaching in the United States. The program authorizes the President to bestow up to 108 awards each year.

Awards are given to mathematics and science teachers from each of the 50 states and four U.S. jurisdictions. The award recognizes those teachers who develop and implement a high-quality instructional program that is informed by content knowledge and enhances student learning.

Bara attended, along with more than 70 past-Presidential awardees, a NSF summit in November to learn more about the Science, Technology, Engineering and Math (STEM) Education Coalition.

The three main priorities for STEM education: increasing STEM literacy so all students can think critically in science, math, engineering and technology; improving the quality of math and science teaching so American students are no longer outperformed by those in other nations, and expanding STEM education and career opportunities for underrepresented groups, including women and minorities.

“Obama really cares about education,” Bara said. “The STEM program is really important for educators and students.”

Bara believes quality STEM education should be available to all students. He agrees accountability is a good thing. However, he thinks labeling schools by measuring average-yearly progress makes no sense.

Bara would like to see congress fix the laws and for the federal government to support state efforts while avoiding mandate.

“He (Bara) has touched countless people by his teaching and we are proud to have him part of our team at Troy High School,” Francom said.