Congratulations to
CRLS Physics teacher, Kristin Newton, who is a 2023 state finalist for the Presidential Awards for Excellence in Math and Science Teaching (PAEMST)! The PAEMST are the nation’s highest honors for teachers of math and science. Kris is one of six finalists who are now being considered in the National Selection Process.
Learn more about this award >>
Kris has taught physics at Cambridge Rindge and Latin School for over 30 years. She led development of the heterogeneous ninth grade physics course and is deeply committed to its continued success and the team of CRLS physics teachers with whom she collaborates. She uses Modeling Instruction, a guided inquiry pedagogy in which students build conceptual physics models through experimentation, collaboration, and discussion. As a lifelong learner, Kris recently took a computational modeling workshop, and now her students are coding simulations that they use to explore physics concepts.
Kris has taken every opportunity to share what she has learned, presenting at conferences and mentoring dozens of colleagues, including 17 student teachers. She also leads Modeling Instruction Workshops for teachers from across the country.
Kris advises the CRLS Science Team, which participates in competitions including the 2023 Women of Science Competition, where CRLS students won first prize and brought home sizable scholarships. She also works with the Sustainable Development Club, whose members advocate for native plants to support bees and butterflies and who are helping introduce kelp veggie balls and patties to the cafeteria.
Kris loves to bake, make jam, do puzzles, practice yoga, and hang out with her family.
