Grand Prize Winner:
Peter Nguyen
Mr. Nguyen is a deeply committed and innovative physics educator who brings energy and purpose to his classroom every day. He teaches physics at Alief Early College High School (Houston), where students are consistently challenged through hands-on, engaging science labs that make abstract concepts come to life.
In his classroom, students might be found designing and testing catapults, building mousetrap cars, or experimenting with roller coaster models to explore real-world physics in action. While his labs are rigorous, they are intentionally designed to deepen understanding and push students to think critically, problem-solve, and apply what they learn in meaningful ways.
His teaching philosophy is built on leading by example and showing empathy. He encourages students to learn from mistakes, ask questions, and think critically rather than focus only on getting the “right” answer. By creating a positive learning environment, Mr. Nguyen helps students build confidence and develop a stronger understanding of science.
Distinguished Award Winners:
Meylis Atayev
Mr. Atayev is a dedicated physics and aerospace engineering teacher who builds his classroom around hands-on learning, curiosity, and real-world applications. At San Antonio College Prep High School, he designs engaging lessons and projects that help students explore complex scientific concepts through collaboration and problem-solving.
One unique aspect of his classroom is his use of engineering-based projects, such as a projectile motion unit where students design and test air-powered launchers in preparation for Science Olympiad competitions. Through hundreds of trials, students learn persistence and teamwork, ultimately helping the school earn its first-ever medal in the Air Trajectory event at the Rice University regional competition.
Mr. Atayev focuses on helping students truly understand science rather than memorizing facts. He provides feedback and support while encouraging students to reflect on their learning and improve over time. In his classroom, students feel challenged, supported, and inspired to think and work like scientists and engineers.
Jude Xerxes Herbolario
Mr. Herbolario is a passionate educator and mentor whose interactive teaching style motivates students to truly understand science. Drawing on his experience as a biotech professional, he brings real-world knowledge and meaningful life lessons to his role as a life science teacher at James D. Ryan Middle School (Houston).
He creates opportunities for students to engage in scientific collaboration, including international partnerships with a school in the Philippines where students exchange research ideas and discuss scientific questions across time zones. These experiences help students strengthen their understanding of science while also building global connections.
Mr. Herbolario also encourages and helps prepare students to present their research to community members and major competitions such as the Science and Engineering Fair of Houston and the Texas Science and Engineering Fair. His mentorship has helped students succeed, including earning the 2025 Space Junior Scientist Award for a space travel research proposal.
As a teacher, Mr. Perez creates a classroom environment built on relationships, trust, and curiosity. Over the years, he has taught kindergarten, second grade, fourth grade, and fifth grade, giving him a unique understanding of how students grow and learn at every stage. No matter the grade level, one thing has remained constant: his commitment to making science meaningful, exciting, and accessible for every student.
His fifth-grade classroom at Crippen Elementary (Porter) is filled with hands-on learning, interactive games, model building, outdoor exploration, and opportunities for student choice. Through laughter, creativity, and encouragement, he helps students feel confident in their abilities and excited to participate in learning.
What truly sets Mr. Perez apart is the way he extends learning beyond the classroom walls. He founded monthly Science Discovery Nights, where students and families work alongside STEM professionals in hands-on activities that spark curiosity and strengthen family engagement. He also leads after-school science clubs and organizes a campus science fair, giving students opportunities to explore their interests and imagine future careers in science.
See Past Winners
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