ANDOVER, Mass. —Maria M. Litvin, instructor in mathematics at Phillips Academy, has received a 2003 RadioShack National Teacher Award. The only winner from Massachusetts, she is among 110 educators nationwide to receive this $3,000 award for demonstrating a commitment to academic excellence in mathematics, science or technology. In addition, Phillips Academy will receive a $500 RadioShack Tech Tool Grant to buy equipment, software or supplies to enhance the learning experience for students in the classroom.

Litvin, an educator for 22 years, teaches calculus, introduction to programming and computer science. She earned B.S. and M.S. degrees in mathematics and education from the Moscow (Russia) Central School of Education. She is a member of the National Council of Teachers of Mathematics and the Association of Advanced Placement Mathematics Teachers. Since 1997, she has been the head writer for a national computer science contest.

"It's exciting to help students learn to see the big picture," says Litvin. "It’s rewarding to get them involved in the subject and then watch their success exceed your expectations, whether it's a weaker student who mastered the material or a strong student who became a star."

The National Teacher Award recipients were recognized at the National Science Teachers Association convention March 27-30 in Philadelphia, Pa. "Receiving this award has given me greater confidence in my teaching and inspired me to keep striving to do a better job," says Litvin.

Since the National Teacher Award program began in 1988, RadioShack has awarded over $4.5 million in cash and prizes to 1,440 individuals for their commitment, excellence and innovation in the classroom. Donald T. Barry, instructor in mathematics, was a previous winner from Phillips Academy. "These awards help motivate talented professionals to develop innovative teaching methods to educate our children, because understanding math, science and technology is key to a successful future in any field," says Laura Moore, senior vice president and chief communications officer for RadioShack Corporation.