New Britain teacher up for Presidential Award

NEW BRITAIN, Conn. (WTNH) -- A New Britain teacher has been named a state finalist for a Presidential award.

Andrew Mazzei, a 6th grade math teacher at Louis P. Slade Middle School, has been named a state finalist for the Presidential Award for Excellence in Mathematics and Science Teaching.

He was nominated for the award last March by Lara Bohlke, the middle school numeracy resource teacher for the consolidated school district of New Britain.

"This recognition is a testament to the quality instructional experience that Mr. Mazzei provides in his classroom everyday," Bohlke said. "He is creative, organized and adamant that all of his students will learn and grow in their understanding of mathematics."

Mazzei said he's proud to represent New Britain.

"It was an honor to be nominated for such a prestigious award," Mazzei said. "I am so proud of the accomplishment of being a state finalist. I am excited to put the educators of New Britain on a national stage."

Mazzei is one of six state finalists.

Mazzei will find out this Spring if he will be traveling to Washington D.C. to accept personal congratulations from President Obama.