March 8, 2002, Arlington, VA — Peggy Carlisle, a teacher at Pecan Park Elementary School, is this year's winner of the $10,000 Shell Science Teaching Award. The award will be presented by the National Science Teachers Association (NSTA) on March 29th, at the National Convention in San Diego, CA. Carlisle competed against a nationwide group of nominees, representing science teachers from all grade levels and science disciplines.
Shell Oil Company is the sponsor of this award, which honors classroom teachers who significantly impact students through exemplary science teaching. "The recognition and support of classroom teachers through our partnership with NSTA is a key element in Shell's Talent Pipeline Process, which is about building for the future with a long-term focus on employment needs," said Joy Cocchiara, External Affairs representative.
A blue-ribbon panel of judges, composed of NSTA members with extensive experience in science education, presided over the competition. Ten semifinalists were selected based on essays, which outlined their teaching philosophy and instructional methods, and who were then asked to provide a videotape of their classroom teaching. Three outstanding teachers proceeded as finalist, and were visited by a sub-committee of judges for on-site observation of their classroom techniques.
The two finalist were Sheryl Sotelo from Cooper Landing Elementary in Cooper Landing, Alaska and Richmond Edwards, The Summit School in Hot Springs, AR. All finalists received an all expense paid trip to the National Convention.
Carlisle graduated from Mississippi College with a master's degree in Elementary Education, and a bachelor's degree from the University of Southern Mississippi. She has taught science in the Jackson Public School District at both Pecan Park and Poindexter Elementary Schools, and is a recognized leader among a select group of teachers who participated in pilot programs to help bring about systemic reform in the District. She is a former JPS Teacher of the Year, Mississippi Science Teachers Association Outstanding Elementary Teacher, and recipient of the Presidential Award for Excellence in Mathematics and Science Teaching.
Carlisle believes that hands-on scientific investigations give students of all abilities an opportunity to experience success. "Many of my students have limited educational experiences outside of the classroom, yet come to school full of natural curiosity about the world and how it works. The hands-on activities in our science program excites them and greatly expands their knowledge of science through personal exploration."
The National Science Teachers Association (NSTA), founded in 1944 and headquartered in Arlington, Virginia, is the largest organization in the world committed to promoting excellence and innovation in science teaching and learning for all. NSTA's current membership of more than 53,000 includes science teachers, science supervisors, administrators, scientists, business and industry representatives, and others involved in science education.
Media Contacts:
Lori Pinson, NSTA, (703) 312-9217
Wanda Quon, Principal, Pecan Park Elementary, (601) 960-5444
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