Congressman Faleomavaega is pleased to announce that Mrs. Meritiana Savea has been selected to receive the 2003 Presidential Award for Excellence in Mathematics and Science Teaching (PAEMST).  Mrs. Savea and her fellow awardees will spend the week of March 15, 2004 in Washington to commemorate their selection. 

            “The PAEMST Program was established by Congress in 1983 and is administered by the National Science Foundation,” Congressman Faleomavaega said.  “It is designed to recognize and reward outstanding mathematics and science teachers, kindergarten through 12^th grade.”

            “Mrs. Savea teaches at Matafao Elementary School and has been selected to receive our nation’s highest award because she serves as a role model for her colleagues and is a leader in the improvement of science and mathematics education.  Mrs. Savea is also a high quality teacher.  She has dedicated her life to making a difference in the lives of our students and I am proud that our nation has recognized her service.”

            “At this time, I am also pleased to welcome Mrs. Savea to our Nation’s Capitol and thank her for her dedication to our children’s education and her leadership in Math and Science Teaching.  As a token of my appreciation, I have flown a flag over our Nation’s Capitol in recognition of her historic achievement and I know I speak for all Samoans when I say ‘Meritiana, we are proud of you,’” the Congressman concluded.

Photo: Congressman Faleomavaega congratulates Meritiana Falealii-Savea and presents her a Certificate of Special Congressional Recognition for her outstanding service.