Wayland High School math teacher Linda Anderson Bensyl, one of the most decorated faculty members locally, has won yet another award.

She is one of only four Michigan teachers to be awarded a Presidential Excellence Award in Science, Mathematics and Engineering. Established in 1983, PAEMST is the highest award given by the U.S. government to kindergarten through 12th grade teachers of mathematics and science, including computer science.

Bensyl, who holds a master’s degree and a doctorate (PhD) in mathematics from Central Michigan University, has been teaching in Wayland for more than 20 years. Prior to coming to Wayland she taught mathematics for four years in Evart.

“I value education and encourage everyone to continue to learn,” she said in her profile

She currently teaches Algebra 2 and advanced placement statistics at Wayland High School. She has won many professional awards, including the coveted Kathryn L. Brenner Teacher of the Year award.

Assistant Superintendent of InstructionTeresa Fulk nominated Bensyl for the award.

“She has the ability to motivate and enable students to be successful,” said Fulk. “Bensyl is an expert in the field of mathematics and demonstrates mastery of content in all classes.  She knows the importance of not only teaching students how to perform mathematical processes but to also deeply think about what the process means and how they can apply it in the real world.”

“We are very proud of Dr. Bensyl for receiving this award,” said Wayland High School Principal Tom Cutler. “She employs many strategies that engage her students in learning, often utilizing higher level thinking skills to challenge students.”