ST. LOUIS - During a ceremony held on Tuesday, May 13, 2008 at the Saint Louis Science Center, Emilie Grimi, a math teacher at Marian Middle School in St. Louis, was awarded the 2008 Saint Louis Science Center/Carol B. and Jerome T. Loeb Prize for Excellence in Teaching Science & Mathematics. Four other St. Louis area teachers, all finalists for the prize, were recognized as well.
Ms. Grimi was nominated by Christy Leming, the principal at Marian, who wrote "Ms. Grimi [works] relentlessly on behalf of students who struggle academically," and "makes an impact in the larger educational world, not simply within her school community."
"My simple philosophy for teaching is that all students can learn and be successful," said Ms. Grimi in her application. "Therefore, I strive to create classroom activities that are engaging and relevant to the students. I have enjoyed seeing all my students find success and improve their confidence within mathematics and science."
Ms. Grimi and the other finalists received cash prizes, and each nominated teacher's school received funds for a future field trip to the Saint Louis Science Center.
The Loeb Prize, which rewards teachers who significantly enhance their students' performances in the areas of science and mathematics, was established in 1996 and endowed in 2002 by a generous gift from Carol B. and Jerome T. Loeb. It is one of the many ways in which the Loeb family and the Science Center demonstrate a commitment to teaching professionals and elevate public appreciation for teachers' efforts.
"It is my hope the experience, recognition and professional growth gained during the Loeb Prize process reinvigorate and revitalize the teachers and help them to have an even greater impact on their students," said Mrs. Loeb. "These exceptional educators serve as role models and mentors in their schools and districts, and the Prize are our way to honor those who give so much of themselves every day."
The late Mr. Loeb worked for The May Department Stores Company, eventually serving as chairman of the board. He was chairman of the Science Center's Board of Commissioners and a member of the Board of Trustees. Mrs. Loeb, a math teacher for 46 years, is an active volunteer and serves currently on the Science Center's Board of Trustees.
"The nominated teachers are inspiring their students in fields that are critical to our future success in a global society," said Carol Valenta, Assistant Museum Director for the Saint Louis Science Center. "The Loeb Prize is a central component of our institution's mission to promote the importance of science and technology and excite younger generations about the application of science in their daily lives."
The 2008 finalists for the Loeb Prize included:* Winner: Emilie Grimi, Math, Marian Middle School, St. Louis City* Mary Ann Bommarito, Science and Math, St. Joan of Arc School, St. Louis City* Ginger Johnson, Science and Chemistry, O'Fallon Township High School, O'Fallon, IL* Steven Kuensting, Biology, St. Louis University High School, St. Louis City* Callie McAleenan, Science, St. Louis Charter School, St. Louis City
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The Loeb PrizeThe Loeb Prize, established in 1996 and endowed in 2002 by the Loeb's' gift, honors effective teaching as a central component of quality education. It is one way in which the Loebs and the Science Center demonstrate their commitment to teaching professionals and elevate public appreciation for teachers' efforts. Jerome Loeb, retired chairman of the board of The May Department Stores Company, was chairman of the Science Center's Board of Commissioners and a member of the Board of Trustees. Carol Loeb is an active community volunteer, current educator and serves on the Science Center's Board of Trustees.ames S. McDonnell Planetarium when writing your story.
Saint Louis Science CenterThe Saint Louis Science Center is one of the top five science centers in the United States, serving 1.2 million visitors annually. Recently named one of America's most visited museums by Forbes Traveler Magazine - the only museum in Missouri to be named to that list - the Saint Louis Science Center complex includes a four-story OMNIMAX? Theater, the air-supported EXPLORADOME?, the James S. McDonnell Planetarium, and the state-of-the-art Taylor Community Science Resource Center. The goals of the Saint Louis Science Center are to educate, inspire and motivate visitors of all ages and engage the community in public dialogue about science-related issues of the day. For more information about the Saint Louis Science Center and its programs, visit slsc.org.
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