Search
Close this search box.

Fort Walton Beach High School’s Jacqueline Sheffield receives nation’s top teaching honor

A Fort Walton Beach High School mathematics educator was among 336 teachers nationwide to receive the Presidential Award for Excellence in Mathematics and Science Teaching, the highest U.S. government recognition for K-12 math and science teachers.
OCSD

Jacqueline Sheffield, a veteran mathematics teacher at Fort Walton Beach High School, has been named a recipient of the Presidential Award for Excellence in Mathematics and Science Teaching (PAEMST).

  • President Joe Biden announced Sheffield as one of 336 recipients of the PAEMST and Presidential Awards for Excellence in Science, Mathematics, and Engineering Mentoring on Jan. 13.

Sheffield, who has taught mathematics for 28 years, including 24 years at Fort Walton Beach High School, teaches Algebra 2 Honors and Advanced Placement Statistics. Before joining Fort Walton Beach High School, she taught at Davidson Middle School.

“Jacqueline Sheffield’s commitment to her students and her profession is truly inspiring,” said Superintendent Marcus Chambers. “Her distinction as a recipient of the Presidential Award for Excellence in Mathematics and Science Teaching reflects her unwavering dedication to academic excellence and her ability to inspire a love of learning in her students.”

The PAEMST, established in 1983, recognizes K-12 mathematics and science teachers who demonstrate deep content knowledge, exceptional teaching ability, and dedication to improving STEM education. Recipients undergo a rigorous selection process, evaluated by panels of distinguished mathematicians, scientists, and educators at state and national levels.

  • Award recipients receive $10,000 from the National Science Foundation and will be honored at a ceremony in Washington, D.C.

“We are incredibly proud to have her as part of our Okaloosa family and thank her for her positive impact on countless students over the years,” Chambers added.

PROMOTION

Join the conversation...

Continue reading 👇

Community Comments

“I will keep an open mind for now. Data Centers are complex and must be evaluated thoroughly before approving any applications. Our county officials must keep all the facts accurate...”
Respond
“How do you sign up for bell ringing or do we just show up day of?”
Respond
“If there is a data center built anywhere near my home, my home goes up for sale. We are currently living part-time in Fredericksburg, Virginia. You do not want these...”
Respond
Scott Schaeffler commented on WordroW: September 3, 2026
“2:34, 5 attempts”
Respond
“This is the fly in the ointment. “It would not affect school district taxes, independent special districts, fire districts, non-ad valorem assessments, MSTUs or MSBUs.” Special Districts, fire districts, etc...”
Respond
“It is shockingly past time to end these invasive citizen surveillance cameras. So many of us are stunned that our hired and elected officials were willing to abuse, even criminalize,...”
Respond
“What a great idea and such a wonderful way to honor Dolly! Love this!”
Respond
“I what an outstanding young lady this Kate Jannazo is!!! Congratulations on all your accomplishments!”
Respond
“They should not be allowed to sell off the property. We do not need another hotel or apartment buildings. Behind city hall we have a neighborhood and city athletic fields....”
Respond

GET OUR FREE LOCAL NEWSLETTER

Get the weekday email that actually makes reading local news enjoyable again.