WSTA Science Teaching Awards
WSTA Excellence in Science Teaching
WSTA is committed to rewarding excellence in science education in Washington state. As part of this effort, we annually recognize up to eight educators, selected from the categories of early childhood education, elementary school, middle school, high school, higher education, and informal science education. Awardees will receive local and state recognition, a one-year membership to WSTA, an honorarium of $500 to be spent at their discretion as well as other benefits.
Applications are will open to all Washington educators on January 1, 2025 and will be due June 30, 2025.
Eligibility:
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Five or more years of science education experience
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Current employment as a part or full-time educator of science at the pre-K,
elementary, middle, secondary, or higher education level or informal science educator in Washington State.
Demonstrated Qualities:
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Promoting culturally responsive science education practices for underrepresented groups, including racial and ethnic identities
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Promotion of science education beyond the classroom
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Excitement and enthusiasm for teaching science
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Evidence of positive impact on student learning
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Current or past participation in local or state science activities or professional development
WSTA in partnership with the Washington Department of Ecology is committed to teaching in ways the support our environment in terms of green chemistry and sustainable design. Any Washington state K-12 teacher who employs green chemistry or sustainable design of materials lessons and units in their classroom is eligible to apply. Please be prepared to submit a lesson or unit as an example of your teaching. Winners will receive a $500 honorarium and free registration for the fall WSTA Conference.
Applications will open to all Washington educators January 1, 2025 and will be due July 31, 2024.
Eligibility:
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Current employment as a part or full-time educator at the pre-K,
elementary, middle, or secondary level in Washington State.
Demonstrated Qualities:
- Evidence of a commitment to promoting green chemistry or sustainable design of materials.
- Exemplary lesson plan or project that demonstrates student learning in these topics.
- Excitement and enthusiasm for teaching about the above.
Related resources:
- Example lessons and resources - https://ecology.wa.gov/waste-toxics/reducing-toxic-chemicals/green-chemistry/green-chemistry-for-k-12-classroom
- More information on Green Chemistry - https://ecology.wa.gov/waste-toxics/reducing-toxic-chemicals/green-chemistry
- Information on green chemistry and sustainable design
- Short video on “What is Green Chemistry?”