The Essie Beck Rising Star Science Education Award is presented by the Louisiana Science Teachers Association to one science teacher at any level (K-12) who has demonstrated exemplary science teaching.  This may include performance in the development/use of instructional materials, design/implementation of curriculum, and/or fostering school-based or community-based instructional programs in science for a period of three to five years.  This award is named for Essie Beck who devoted both her teaching career and retirement years to the improvement of science education in Louisiana. 

Composition of Award

The award consists of a $400 cash award to be used in the teacher’s classroom or to defray expenses to a regional or national science teachers convention, an award plaque, one ticket to the LSTA awards banquet, complimentary one-year membership in LSTA and publication in the LASER of a report describing the awardee’s work.

Rules and Procedures

1.  The Applicant must be a full-time science teacher or full-time classroom teacher, with all the responsibilities of such a position, with 3 but no more than 5 years classroom experience.

 2.  The Applicant must be a LSTA member in good standing.  This can be verified by contacting the LSTA membership chairperson.

3.  The Applicant must prepare a description of his/her exemplary science technique(s), innovations, and/or     program(s), not to exceed five (5) pages typed, double-spaced, on 8.5” x 11” paper in type size no smaller than 10 font. In addition, the applicant should provide a resume that includes formal education, participation in professional organizations, activities related to their role as an educator and other pertinent information.  The exemplary teaching described must be the entrant’s original work but can be based on existing instructional materials. Supplemental sample materials, documents, and/or photographs are encouraged; however, please do not send videos, CD’s or other multi-media materials. Enclose a self-addressed, stamped envelope if you would like these materials returned.

4.  The Applicant should provide three to five letters of support from individuals who are familiar with the exemplary science teaching of the applicant and can corroborate the teaching described.

5.  Submit one (1) original and four (4) copies of the application form and all supporting documents in one envelope to:

 Failure to precisely follow rules will result in disqualification. The winners will be informed as soon as possible after judging.  Presentation of awards will be made at the LSTA Convention.
 

Application Coming Soon