New Utrecht High School math teacher honored for excellence

New Utrecht High School can hold its head up high. The school is home to one of New York City’s best math teachers.

Dieudonne Egotanda, a native of the former Belgian Congo, was awarded a prestigious Sloan Award for Excellence in Teaching for his work with New Utrecht High School students in the subjects of AP Calculus, Geometry, Pre-Calculus and Repeater Algebra.

Given out to seven teachers across all five boroughs, the award recognizes New York City public high school teachers who “motivate students to reach further, work harder, and develop and expand their love for science and mathematics.”

“This year’s recipients of the Sloan Awards for Excellence in Teaching Science and Mathematics are innovative in their approach to helping students navigate challenging coursework, achieving outstanding results and inspiring New York City’s youth to pursue careers in the STEM fields,” said Mary McCormick, president of the Fund for the City of New York (FCNY), the organization behind the award. “These winners provide students at all levels with a foundation for success in the classroom, in college, and beyond. They serve as excellent role models for other teachers.”

The winners are chosen based on applications submitted by parents, students, teachers and administrators, and were honored at a December 2 ceremony, according to FCNY. Each teacher also receives a $5,000 prize and each of their schools will receive $2,500 to strengthen their science or mathematics department.

“A math and science education that excites students and prepares them for success in the 21st century starts with a great teacher,” said Schools Chancellor Carmen Fariña. “The passion and creativity these teachers bring to the classroom is the hallmark of great teaching. Their work in the classroom transcends a lesson plan, and helps instill in their students a lifelong love of learning.”

“These seven educators demonstrate a contagious passion for science and mathematics, encouraging their students to pursue these subjects beyond the classroom and use their education as a tool for building the future,” added Dr. Paul  Joskow, president of the Alfred P. Sloan Foundation. “New York City is fortunate to have outstanding public high school teachers who empower their students to excel and become future leaders in their fields.”

Another Brooklyn math teacher, Fred Galli of Franklin Delano Roosevelt High School, was also presented with the award along with two teachers from Manhattan, two from the Bronx and one from Queens.