Teachers and students have faced challenges and have had to
adapt to new learning environments due to COVID-19, making this year’s Ernest
and Sarah Butler Awards for Excellence in Science Teaching a bright spot for
the five winners who were recognized earlier this year. Each was selected for his
or her commitment and creative approaches to helping students develop a
lifelong love of science. This program is funded by an endowment at TMA Foundation
established by Dr. Ernest and Mrs. Sarah Butler of Austin.
Arlevia Davis, a ninth-grade biology teacher at Legacy High
School in Mansfield, was named the Grand Prize winner. Mrs. Davis uses multiple
teaching methods to engage her students, including role play, dancing – and singing.
Mrs. Davis writes and performs musical numbers, posted on YouTube, to help her
students remember their science lessons. “One of my favorite teaching methods
is singing a song for each unit,” Mrs. Davis wrote in her application essay. “I
write songs, parodies, raps and chants to help student engage with and remember
the information we are learning.” See Mrs. Davis’ short video above describing
what the award means to her and explaining what she plans to do with her award.
TMA established the Science Teacher Awards program in 1990
to stimulate interest and excitement about science among students and potentially
inspire them to consider pursuing a career in medicine. Teachers at the
elementary, middle and high school levels receive cash prizes, and their
schools receive resource grants to enhance their science program. Nominate an outstanding teacher for the
2022 award program by Jan. 3.
“Recognizing excellence in science teaching takes on new
importance as the COVID-19 pandemic has shown that scientific literacy is
critical to maintaining good health,” said Michael Speer, MD, TMAF president.
Meet
All Winners
Last Updated On
November 12, 2021
Originally Published On
November 12, 2021