Kisha Davis-Caldwell
National Science Foundation
Education and Human Resources Directorate, Division of Research on Learning in Formal and Informal Settings, Presidential Awards for Excellence in Mathematics and Science Teaching (PAEMST) Program
Maryland – Grades 4-5, Mathematics
2010-11 Poster Coming Soon
Kisha Davis-Caldwell teaches gifted and talented mathematics at Hammond Elementary School in Howard County, Maryland. This Philadelphia native earned her B.A. in Interdisciplinary Studies and a M.A. in Teaching from the University of Pittsburgh. Davis-Caldwell is National Board Certified in Early Adolescent Mathematics and holds an Administration I certificate in the state of Maryland. She is also an adjunct professor for National University
Davis-Calwell’s teaching career spans 15 years and includes leadership involvement in curriculum and grant writing, mentoring and facilitation of professional development in both public and private schools. As the recipient of the Freeman Foundation Award and a participant in the Japan Fulbright Memorial Fund Program, Kisha has a global perspective on education which has also been shaped by her experiences studying abroad at the University of Beijing, teaching in Japan and exploring schools in Australia, China, England and New Zealand.
Kisha describes her style of teaching as hands-on and inquiry-based. She enjoys the challenge of helping young students connect their classroom knowledge to everyday life.
“My goal as a teacher is to make learning contagious. It is essential for students to transition from doing math and science to using math and science. Students must be able to use what they learn for real-world problem solving. This is the measure of true understanding.”
Davis-Caldwell is serving a second fellowship year at the National Science Foundation in the Division of Research on Learning in Formal and Informal Settings, headquartered in Arlington, VA. She seeks to expand her knowledge of science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM) legislation at the federal level and its impact at the elementary level. She will also continue her work with the Presidential Awards for Excellence in Mathematics and Science Teaching Program. Ms. Davis-Caldwell has enjoyed giving input on how to identify, recruit, recognize and celebrate the nation’s STEM teachers. This year, Davis-Caldwell hopes to focus her advocacy on the areas of teacher professional development and teacher recruitment.