From hands-on laboratory lessons to innovative approaches that bring complex concepts to life, the four recipients of the 2026 Ernest and Sarah Butler Awards for Excellence in Science Teaching are helping shape the next generation of scientific thinkers and hopefully, physicians.
Ernest Butler, MD, and Sarah Butler began supporting the Texas Medical Association’s Excellence in Science Teaching Awards program in 1998, and in 2003 they created an endowment through the TMA Foundation to support and expand it. To honor their generosity, the association renamed the program after the couple. Since then, the awards have given up to $62,000 annually to outstanding elementary, middle, and high school teachers inspiring the next generation of physicians.
“This program has spotlighted the vital role that educators play in helping future generations appreciate and understand the many ways science impacts our daily lives, including inspiring future physicians,” said Clifford Moy, MD, president of TMAF Board of Trustees.
This year’s grand prize winner, Peter Nguyen, has taught physics at Alief Early College High School in Houston for over a decade. Dr. Moy praised Mr. Nguyen for “creating an encouraging environment where students feel comfortable taking risks and asking questions.” Through those actions, “he helps build confidence, critical-thinking skills, and a deeper understanding of science,” Dr. Moy said – valuable work that earned him the Butler Awards’ top recognition, $20,000 plus a $5,000 school resource grant.
Three additional teachers received distinguished awards of $7,000 each, plus a $3,000 school resource grant for each of their respective schools:
- Dustin Perez of Crippen Elementary in Porter. Across his 11-year teaching career, he founded monthly after-school Science Discovery Nights, where students and families work alongside STEM professionals. He also leads after-school science clubs and the school’s science fair.
- Jude Herbolario of James D. Ryan Middle School in Houston. Drawing on his previous experience as a biotechnology professional, he brings real-world knowledge and relevant life lessons into the classroom each day that are “meaningful, exciting, and accessible for every student,” Dr. Moy said.
- Meylis Atayev of San Antonio College Prep High School in San Antonio. He uses innovative projects to teach physics and aerospace engineering, including a projectile motion engineering project designed to prepare students for the Rice University regional Science Olympiad competition.
Applications for the Ernest and Sarah Butler Awards are now open and will close Dec. 15. Applicants must teach science full-time at public or private schools, have at least two years of completed classroom experience, and be returning to a Texas classroom during the 2027-28 school year. Apply or nominate a teacher online.
Alisa Pierce
Reporter, Division of Communications and Marketing
(512) 370-1469