Three Science Teachers Honored for Excellence
A trio of 4J teachers have been honored by the Oregon Science Teachers Association for educational excellence.
Tana Shepard, teacher on special assignment for climate, energy and conservation and coordinator of the 4J/EWEB Education Partnership, is this year’s recipient of OSTA's Distinguished Service to Science Education Award for her outstanding contributions to mentoring and developing new teachers. Shepard was recognized for her years of tireless work at 4J to promote climate, sustainability and environmental connection, including key support for 4J’s High School Student Climate Action team, the district’s composting program, Salmon Watch field trips each fall and the district-wide Electric Vehicle Challenge.
In addition, Carrie Balavender, fifth grader teacher at Willagillespie Elementary School, and Sandi Hickok, science teacher at Kelly Middle School, were recognized by the association as outstanding classroom teachers for the Lane region. The award honors Balavender’s and Hickok’s outstanding work motivating student achievement and excitement in science. The association cited Balavender’s work in coordinating Willagillespie’s school-wide science fair, including bringing in science specialists at 4J and community partners as judges, in addition to serving as the teacher leader for Outdoor School. It praised Hickok for her fierce support for science education and professional learning at 4J and for being a tireless advocate for students.
OSTA is the state chapter of the National Science Teaching Association. Comprised of local teachers and community educators, the association encourages, promotes and assists in improving science teaching and learning throughout Oregon. The association will hold its fall conference at Roosevelt Middle School on Nov. 2.