A teacher of biology at Valley high school has been recognized nationally for his efforts in class.
Kathy Jo Sagwitz, who has been teaching in Valley for 17 years, has been selected as a winner of the Grand Prix of Shell Science Lab Regional Challenge, administered by the National Science Teaching Association.
“Great teaching is more than providing content. It is a question of triggering curiosity and inspiring students to see the world through a scientific objective, “said Alicia Conely, president of the NSTA. “These prizes reflect the dedication of these educators to make science and accessible sciences, which allows students to think critically and discover their potential.”
Sagwitiz had won $ 20,000 in January for a Relooking Science Lab Package de Shell and the NSTA.
The equipment she received included digital scales, thermometers and pH, microscope slides, models, an incubator for the cultivation of bacteria, a water distiller and a demonstration cabinet.
The additional $ 5,000 that came with the Grand Prix covered the expenses of Sagwitz and the Director of the Jon Banko valley to attend the NSTA National Conference in Philadelphia in March, she said.
“I was completely shocked,” she said about national recognition. “I didn’t expect that. I was breathtaking and stunned when I received the email I won.
“It was probably one of the strengths of my career. I have never experienced anything in this sense, and it was really nice to be able to be with other teachers who had won and to make these links. ”
The price, according to NSTA, recognizes exceptional and innovative scientific educators for their approaches to teaching of the scientific laboratory using limited resources. It also aims to raise awareness and exposure of work carried out in the field of science education.
Sagwitz said the most enriching part of his work was “looking at my students to continue to succeed and tell myself that I made a difference for them.”
Kellen Steler is a tribute journalist covering the school districts of Algheny and the school regions of Burrell. He joined the trib in April 2023. He can be joined to kstepler@triblive.com.