NEWS RELEASE
ST. VRAIN VALLEY SCHOOLS
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Beth Cerrone, Cybersecurity Instructor at the Innovation Center of St. Vrain Valley Schools, has been named the 2023 High School recipient of the National Presidential Cybersecurity Award, sponsored by the National Department of Education.
This annual recognition is awarded to one exceptional high school teacher in the nation.
Cerrone has been instrumental in developing a comprehensive Cybersecurity pathway for St. Vrain Valley Schools, equipping students for the workforce and higher education. The district now offers six course pathways, including four certifications and the opportunity for students to earn 9 dual credits from Aims Community College.
“Beth has channeled her passion for teaching and cybersecurity into building one of the very best pathways around,” shared Axel Reitzig, executive director of the Innovation Center.
“She not only puts her energy towards her own program and students, but also to helping numerous others throughout Colorado and beyond. She also has been actively engaged with leadership at both the state and national levels. She truly deserves this recognition,” Reitzig said.
Cerrone also leads the student Cyber Tech Project Team at the Innovation Center, providing students with various opportunities to apply their skills in real-world projects, enhancing crucial industry skills like leadership, public speaking, project management, collaboration, and professionalism.
Recent initiatives include the Senior Citizen Project, where the Cyber Tech Project Team collaborates with the Longmont Senior Center to educate seniors on online safety. Cybersecurity programming in St. Vrain also involves student participation in various competitions such as Cyber Patriot, CyberStart America, PicoCTF, Code Quest, Code Wars, and more, where students work collaboratively to tackle cybersecurity challenges.
“I am so grateful for the opportunities I have had in St. Vrain over the last 20-plus years. I wouldn't be where I am today without the support of my administration, colleagues, and most importantly, my wonderful students, ” said Cerrone.
The Presidential Cybersecurity Education Award is presented by the U.S. Secretary of Education to teachers in the field of cybersecurity to honor their contributions to the education of our nation’s students. The award is bestowed annually to two teachers — one at the elementary level and one at the secondary level — who “demonstrate superior achievement in instilling skills, knowledge, and passion with respect to cybersecurity and cybersecurity-related subjects.”
The recipients embody the dedication and expertise of educators who are critical to increasing the cybersecurity awareness of all students, inspiring the nation’s future cybersecurity workforce, and contributing to a more secure society. The award acknowledges both the exemplary achievements demonstrated by the teachers and that of the teacher’s students.
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