According to a Dec. 16 press release by LTHS:

Lyons Township High School biology teacher Jason Crean was in Washington, D.C., last week along with 102 other math and science teachers being formally recognized as National Finalists for the Presidential Award for Excellence in Mathematics and Science Teaching by the National Science Foundation.

Crean was named a winner by President Barack Obama after being chosen by a panel of distinguished scientists, mathematicians and educators following selection at the state level. Crean took part in a celebratory ceremony and met with science agency leaders and attended numerous educational events.

Crean accepted his award from Dr. John Holdren, science adviser to the president. Finalists also met Arne Duncan, the U.S. Secretary of Education.

Discussions centered on science education and Professional Learning Communities. Crean said, "It's very interesting to hear about these things from all other states and that we're all experiencing some of the same challenges."