Constance Ahrens

Rapid City, SD - Mathematics
photo

I am honored to be nominated for this award. The Presidential Award for Excellence in Mathematics and Science Teaching is an incredible way to recognize teachers who believe that our students can achieve and will perform at high levels in mathematics and science. This award validates the dedication and commitment of teachers. It communicates a message that science and mathematics are valued areas of study. Being a nominee has motivated me to continue to promote excellent mathematics instruction.

Constance Ahrens has been an Elementary Math Teacher Leader for Rapid City Area Schools at Knollwood Heights Elementary in Rapid City, SD, for 7 years. She was a Middle School Mathematics Coach for Todd County Middle School in Mission, SD, for 1 year.

Connie taught second grade at Knollwood Heights Elementary for 8 years and third grade for 1 year at Saint Francis Indian School in Saint Francis, SD. She worked as a paraprofessional at Rosebud Elementary in Rosebud, SD, for 8 years.

Connie coached second through eighth grade teachers in inquiry-based instruction. She implemented mathematical professional development in her building. She taught mathematics courses for Oglala Lakota College in Rapid City, SD. She has dedicated many hours to studying to develop her mathematical knowledge and facilitation skills.

Connie has an A.A. in early childhood from Chadron State College in Chadron, NE, a B.S. in elementary education from Sinte Gleska University in Mission, SD, and an M.A. in curriculum and instruction from South Dakota State University in Brookings, SD. She is certified in birth to preschool education, kindergarten through eighth grade elementary education, and as a curriculum director. Her endorsements include fifth through eighth grade middle school language arts, social science, and mathematics.

certificate