Many non-profit foundations provide scholarships for students with the caveat that they are used to pay college tuition. While the need to help students is valid, teachers, not scholarships, motivate learning. With that in mind, our family foundation directly rewards outstanding high school math and science teachers who demonstrate classroom innovation and creativity.

Why math and science teachers? A report compiled by the Organization for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD) found that of the 34 nation members, the United States ranked 28th in high school math and science. I believe that advancing our international ranking requires innovative thinking and increased support for teachers.

In 2013, the Barrett family established the $10,000 Teaching Excellence in Mathematics and Science Award. An independent panel of judges at the Ph.D. level selects our recipients. Our awards are tax-free and may be used by teachers without any restrictions. Since its inception, we have bestowed $420,000 on 39 exemplary educators.

Teachers make a difference in the lives of their students, and we want to make a difference in their lives.

Dr. John P. Barrett
Founder, Chairman