HUGHESVILLE --- A teacher from Lycoming County has been nationally recognized for her dedication in the classroom.
Desks and chairs are stacked up against the walls at Hughesville Junior Senior High School. The pencils are put away for the summer, but during the school year students in Susan Higley's math class are hard at work.
"Mrs. Higley everyone knew was like the hard math teacher. When you went into her class it was like really difficult and I had her for two classes. I was really nervous, but once you get into her class she's the nicest lady,” said Kaitlin Peterman.
"I love my job. I love the kids. I love teaching. I love seeing the enthusiasm in their face and I love turning them onto learning," said Susan Higley.
Now that love for learning has earned her some national recognition. Later this summer Higley will take a trip to the White House. She is one of 108 teachers chosen to receive the Presidential Award for Excellence in Mathematics and Science. Higley was nominated for the national award by another teacher and a student.
"I'm honored I'm honored and I’m very thankful. It's humbling,"
Hughesville Junior Senior High school holds its new STEM class in this room. Higley is one of the instructors who is helping to implement the new curriculum.
"She really made me look forward to her class every day," said Andrew Miller
Higley will also receive a $10,000 award from the National Science Foundation.
"Oh, I’m so excited. Think of all the graphing calculators!"
"I'm proud of you for receiving this award, Mrs. Higley. You're the best," said Miller.
