NIST Sigma Xi Outstanding Teacher Award
NIST Sigma Xi STEM Teacher Recognition Award: Honoring Excellence in Science Education
The NIST Sigma Xi STEM Teacher Recognition Award celebrates outstanding middle or high school educators who ignite a passion for science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) in their students. We seek to recognize teachers who demonstrate exceptional teaching skills, foster a love of learning, and inspire students to pursue careers in STEM fields.
Who is eligible?
Middle or High school science, technology, engineering, or mathematics teachers (public, private, or charter schools)
Teachers who demonstrate a commitment to innovative and engaging teaching methods
Educators who actively encourage student participation in research projects, science fairs, or other STEM-related activities
Teachers at schools within Frederick County, Montgomery County, and DC
Selection Criteria:
The selection committee will consider the following criteria when evaluating nominations:
Teaching Excellence: A strong record of effective teaching strategies, curriculum development, and student learning outcomes.
Engagement and Innovation: The ability to create a stimulating and engaging learning environment that fosters curiosity and critical thinking.
Impact on Students: Evidence of the teacher's positive influence on students' interest and pursuit of STEM education and careers.
Collaboration: A demonstrated commitment to collaborating with colleagues and promoting STEM education within the school community.
Nomination Process:
We encourage educators, parents, students, and administrators to nominate deserving middle or high school STEM teachers. The nomination package should include:
The name of the teacher, the school name, and nomination letters
The nomination statement (one page limit) highlights the teacher's qualifications and achievements and can be from parents, teachers, principals, staff, or self-nominations.
Up to three letters of support will be evaluated per teacher!
Benefits for the Award Winner:
Public recognition of their outstanding contributions to STEM education
A cash award of $250 to support their professional development
Recognition on the NIST Sigma Xi website and other platforms
Call to Action:
Do you know a middle or high school STEM teacher who exemplifies these qualities? We encourage you to submit a nomination today!
By recognizing and celebrating exceptional STEM educators, we can inspire the next generation of scientists, engineers, and innovators.
2018 Winner Montgomery County
Advanced technology teacher Pongpun Punhong from Montgomery Blair High School, Sliver Spring , MD
2018 Winner Frederick County
Science teacher Elizabeth McCook from Urbana High School, Ijamsville, MD
2018 Winners DC Public Schools
Mathematics teacher Tierra Ingram from Frank W. Ballou Senior High School, Washington, DC
Mathematics teacher Dr. Sean Perkins from Frank W. Ballou Senior High School, Washington, DC
2015 Winner Montgomery County
Science teacher Lisa Voketitis from Damascus High School, Damascus, MD
2015 Winner Frederick County
Physcis and chemisty teacher Christopher Hahn from Liganore High School, Frederick, MD
2013 Winner Montgomery County
Science teacher Kurt Richter from Gaithersburg High School, Gaithersburg, MD
2010 Winner montgomery county
Science teacher Jamie Jenkins from Martin Luther King Middle School, Germantown, MD
2009 winner montgomery county
Mathematics teacher Pamela Opeka from Washington Christian Academy, Olney, MD