While the COVID-19 pandemic has exposed numerous gaps and shortfalls, it also has emphasized the need for science. The Texas Medical Association’s Ernest and Sarah Butler Awards for Excellence in Science Teaching help shine a light on the importance of science education to secure for the future of health care and more.
One Texas science teacher who responded to a TMA informal survey agrees. “I see it [science education] as more critical than ever to make sure our K-12 students leave our classes with an understanding of what science is and what it is capable of doing. The past three years have shown we need this in the population more than we ever realized before 2020.”
If you know a science teacher who brings the subject to life, perhaps inspiring students to pursue a related career, nominate him or her for the TMA awards, which recognize and reward exemplary science teachers at the elementary-, middle-, and high-school levels.
Texas full-time public and private school science teachers with a minimum of two years’ completed classroom experience in all areas of science are eligible. Winning teachers receive a cash prize and a resource grant for their school.
Most teachers spend $2,000 to $3,000 out of their own pocket annually on classroom supplies, according to the TMA survey. And most respondents say their schools need more lab and science equipment to teach effectively.
Despite the challenges, many teachers remain dedicated to their students and their profession. Elementary science teacher Valerie Valadez-Sims, the 2021-22 grand prize winner, said she aims to create an atmosphere where her students “are allowed to be courageous risk-takers, to elevate their voices on topics they are passionate about, and to believe they are world-changers.”
Nominations for the 2022-23 awards are due Dec. 3. TMA reaches out to nominated teachers to encourage them to submit application materials. Teachers also can self-nominate.
If you have questions, email SciTeacherAward@texmed.org or visit www.texmed.org/Teachers for more information.
The TMA Ernest and Sarah Butler Awards for Excellence in Science Teaching are made possible by a grant from the Texas Medical Association Foundation, which is supported through an endowment generously established at the TMA Foundation by Dr. and Mrs. Ernest C. Butler and gifts from physicians and their families.
Last Updated On
November 14, 2022
Originally Published On
November 14, 2022
Tammy Wishard
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