Curiosity, scientific thought process, and love of learning – all are characteristics instilled in future physicians as early as kindergarten by the five recipients of 2025’s Ernest and Sarah Butler Awards for Excellence in Science Teaching.
“The future success of physicians is closely linked to the guidance they receive in their early education,” Texas Medical Association President-Elect Brad Holland, MD, said at a June 14 reception honoring the recipients. “Your dedication, passion, and steadfast commitment to excellence in teaching science will significantly influence the future, including inspiring a new generation to pursue medical professions that enhance the health and well-being of all Texans.”
Established in 1990, the Excellence in Science Teaching Awards spotlight the vital role that educators play in helping future generations appreciate and understand the many ways science impacts daily life, including inspiring future physicians.
Award namesakes Ernest Butler, MD, and Sarah Butler established an endowment at the TMA Foundation, TMA’s philanthropic arm, in 1998 to support and expand the program. A TMAF grant funds the annual awards through the endowment and gifts from other physicians and their families.
Grand Prize winner Karissa Smith, of Lakeview Elementary School in Northwest Independent School District in Fort Worth, is a 17-year education veteran. She designs hands-on activities that get first-time students in kindergarten excited and ready to learn. Her creativity, patience, and adaptability, including leading other teachers in professional development, earned her the Butler Awards’ top recognition.
Distinguished award winners include:
- Joseph Ferrara of All Saints’ Episcopal School Fort Worth. His real-world approach to science with Advanced Placement and honors high school students includes a live snake breeding program teaching genetics, behavior, and responsibility.
- Jacqualine Jones of Grantham Academy in the Aldine Independent School District, in the Houston area. Having struggled in school herself, she believes every student can learn and succeed with the right support, which she provides with hands-on lessons and a classroom where students feel safe to ask questions, make mistakes, and grow.
- Joseph Parthemore, of Glenhope Elementary School in the Grapevine-Colleyville Independent School District, in the Dallas-Fort Worth area. To help students think deeply and solve problems, he uses project-based learning that enables students to explore topics that matter to them.
The Rookie Award for a teacher with fewer than seven years’ experience was given to Jeremy Lee of Stafford STEM Magnet Academy near Houston.
Applications for the 2026 Ernest and Sarah Butler Awards are now open and will close Jan. 4, 2026. Apply or nominate a teacher online.
Last Updated On
June 17, 2025
Originally Published On
June 17, 2025