January 28, 2025
For Immediate Release
CONTACT:
Office of Communications
301-952-6001
communications@pgcps.org
UPPER MARLBORO, MD — Kenmoor Middle School science teacher Modupe Olafunmiloye is one of just four educators in Maryland and 110 nationwide to receive the Presidential Award for Excellence in Mathematics and Science Teaching (PAEMST), the nation’s highest award for teaching in science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM).
"We couldn’t be prouder of Ms. Olafunmiloye for earning this prestigious recognition in STEM education,” said Superintendent Millard House II. “Her dedication to inspiring and empowering students exemplifies the excellence and passion our educators bring to the classroom every day.”
After leaving public education to found STEMWonders Education and Enrichment, an organization that provides hands-on STEM opportunities for all students, Olafunmiloye returned to Kenmoor in October 2024 at the request of former colleague and Talented & Gifted (TAG) teacher Beth Novick.
“Ms. Olafunmiloye’s innovative approach to teaching and dedication to creating inclusive, engaging learning experiences is a model of excellence,” said Kenmoor principal Rebecca Turner. “We are thrilled to have her return to our Kenmoor Middle School family.”
Prior to her years of work with STEMWonders Education and Enrichment, Olafunmiloye served Prince George’s County Public Schools (PGCPS) students with cognitive disabilities at Buck Lodge Middle School for five years and spent eight years at Kenmoor Middle School teaching general education science and high school biology to gifted students.
A passionate advocate for accessible STEM education, she created after-school clubs for robotics, environmental science, and STEM competitions. Her students won multiple Maryland State awards, including in eCybermission. Olafunmiloye has also served as a mentor teacher and held a lead technology role, earning recognition at both the school and county levels.
Olafunmiloye holds a bachelor’s degree in zoology from the University of Ilorin and a master’s degree in zoology from the University of Ibadan, Nigeria. She is certified in both biology and K-12 special education.
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