In her 17th year of teaching, Becky has taught math at Dean Morgan Junior High and has shared her tremendous talents and love of math and computer science with students and her colleagues at Kelly Walsh High School for the past 16 years.
Honored to be nominated for the award, Becky shared her Inspiration for being a phenomenal teacher comes from those she works alongside each day, “There are so many people deserving of this award, it was an honor just to be nominated. As a student, I had phenomenal teachers in our district who inspired me to excel in both math and computer science. In my k-12 education, I had teachers such as Leah Merchant, Marilyn Stafford, and Becky Underwood who inspired me to become a math and computer science teacher. I am a T3 Regional Instructor for Texas Instruments. This has provided me with a network of outstanding teachers to learn from and grow alongside. I strive to show students statistics and computer science are applicable to their daily lives. I'm inspired to see my students feel confident and accomplished when they use problem solving and creativity to solve problems.”
“The Presidential Award for Excellence in Mathematics and Science Teaching is the highest recognition that a K-12 mathematics or science teacher can receive in the U.S. This program authorizes the President to present 108 awards each year. Awards are given to exemplary mathematics and science teachers in each of the 50 states and the four U.S. jurisdictions.
These teachers are recognized for their contribution to excellence in teaching and learning. Awardees serve as models for their colleagues, inspiration to their schools and communities, and leaders in the state and nation. This growing network of award-winning teachers serves as a vital national resource for the improvement of mathematics and science education.
Each year, finalists in each state are chosen for the Presidential Award through a rigorous peer review process. Their applications are forwarded to the National Science Foundation where the final selection for the national Presidential Awardee is made.” Wyoming Department of Education Memorandum (2021)
NCSD staff members work diligently to provide exceptional services, resources, and educational opportunities for students, their fellow colleagues, school families, and our community.
Becky finds the joy in being an educator is often found in the successes and learning opportunities of each day, “I get to come to school every day and challenge students to be their best self. I want to show students it's ok to not always know the answer right away. We learn from our mistakes as well as our successes. I am excited when students are excited about their accomplishments in learning. Regardless of their path in life, I want to show students they can accomplish anything with perseverance and hard work.”
Congratulations Ms. Byer, on this tremendous recognition of your commitment to educational excellence and the brilliant work you do each day!