Hillsborough County Public Schools -

For Immediate Release

Contact: Tanya Arja or Debra Bellanti

Hillsborough County Public Schools

Office of Communications

813-272-4060

Tampa, Fl. (January 14, 2025) – Yung Romano, a 9th grade IB Biology teacher at Strawberry Crest High School, has been honored with the Presidential Award for Excellence in Mathematics and Science Teaching (PAEMST).

Mrs. Romano, now in her 19th year of teaching, won for the entire state of Florida. This is the highest award K-12 math and science teachers can receive from the U.S. government.

President Biden announced 336 teachers and mentors from around the nation as recipients of the Presidential Awards for Excellence in Mathematics and Science Teaching (PAEMST) and the Presidential Awards for Excellence in Science, Mathematics, and Engineering Mentoring (PAESMEM). Established in 1983, these awards honor the vital role that America’s teachers and mentors play in shaping the next generation of technical leaders, including scientists, engineers, explorers, and innovators.

“I came to the United States as a war refugee after the Vietnam War. All my teachers not only prepared me with skills, but also nurtured me to believe in my true potential. This award recognizes the men and women who have dedicated their lives to preparing the science and mathematics skills of countless generations of students. To be on both the receiving end of this dedication and now to be awarded for this dedication is one of the highest honors for which I am humbled and honored to receive,” said Yung (pronounced yoon) Romano. (a photo of Mrs. Romano is attached)

Nominees complete a rigorous application process to demonstrate deep content knowledge and an ability to adapt to a broad range of learners and teaching environments. A panel of distinguished mathematicians, scientists, and educators at the state and national levels assess the nominations before recommending awardees to the White House Office of Science and Technology Policy (OSTP). Teachers are selected based on their distinction in the classroom and dedication to improving STEM education.

“I am so proud of Mrs. Romano and commend her for being honored with this prestigious award. It is a testament to her unwavering dedication, innovative teaching methods, and the profound impact she has had on her students over the years. Her commitment to STEM education should inspire us all, as she is teaching our future scientists, doctors, and biologists. I congratulate her on this well-deserved honor,” said Superintendent Van Ayres, Hillsborough County Public Schools.