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Today, the U.S. National Science Foundation announced a request for information (RFI), inviting suggestions and innovations to inform a comprehensive review of its Excellence Awards in Science and Engineering (EASE). NSF remains committed to advancing high-quality K-12 science, technology, engineering and mathematics teaching and mentoring, including through EASE.
Administered by NSF on behalf of the White House Office of Science and Technology Policy, EASE recognizes outstanding contributions in STEM mentoring and teaching through the Presidential Awards for Excellence in Mathematics and Science Teaching (PAEMST) program and the Presidential Awards for Excellence in Science, Mathematics and Engineering Mentoring (PAESMEM) program.
PAEMST is the nation’s highest honor for K-12 STEM teachers, recognizing educators who demonstrate deep knowledge and understanding of the subjects they teach, and their ability to inspire, motivate and enable student success. PAESMEM is the nation’s highest honor for STEM mentors, recognizing the critical role mentors play in the academic and professional development of the future STEM workforce.
In July 2025, NSF announced a pause of both programs to conduct a comprehensive assessment. As part of the review, NSF is issuing an RFI seeking input from both the STEM education and STEM education research communities on exemplary practices, lessons learned from the programs, criteria for selecting award recipients, and other relevant considerations.
Responses to the RFI are due by May 28, 2026.
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