Tracy Bockbrader of Carlton High School is one of two Minnesota science teachers chosen to receive Seagate Science Mentor Awards, a statewide recognition for educators who have mentored student participants in the regional science fairs across Minnesota.
The awards were presented at the Minnesota State Science and Engineering Fair awards ceremony March 20 at the Doubletree by Hilton in Bloomington.
Seagate Science Mentor Awards recognize junior and senior high school science teachers who have found creative ways to nurture students' interest in scientific inquiry and promote science education in their schools. The award criteria specifically considers the nominees' support of students' hands-on projects and experiences outside the classroom that generate interest in the fields of science, technology, engineering and math (STEM). There are two award categories - one for a teacher with one to 10 years of experience, and another for a teacher with 11 or more years of experience.
"The Seagate Science Mentor Awards are very significant, because the teachers are nominated by their students, parents and school staff," said Lise Weegman, director of the State Science and Engineering Fair, Minnesota Academy of Science. "These educators have gained the respect of their students and peers and have made exceptional contributions in promoting science and influencing students to consider STEM-related careers."
Bockbrader received the award for teachers with one to 10 years of experience. She was nominated because of her ability to provide a learning environment that excites and inspires her students to take on challenging science lessons and work to their full potential well beyond the classroom. Bockbrader provides her students with hands-on science activities such as forensic labs, Alka-Selzer rockets, robotics labs and designing and building miniature golf-courses in the school parking lot. Bockbrader also uses field trips to enhance her science classes.
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"It is a privilege to recognize these outstanding teachers for their commitment to generating student interest in hands-on science," said Bob Whitmore, chief technical officer at Seagate. "They have proven track records of nurturing scientific inquiry through mentoring students, promoting creativity, and reinforcing the practical application of skills."
Award winners receive a plaque and $1,000, and their respective schools also receive a plaque and $1,000 for their science programs.
