Washington Science Teachers Association

Washington Science Teachers Association advances science education across Washington State and uses awards, scholarships, professional learning, conference programming, and educator resources to support the people who teach science. Its awards program shows a statewide focus on recognizing classroom practice, leadership, and instructional innovation for science educators working from early childhood through higher education and informal science settings. The association offers three monetary awards and scholarships. The WSTA Excellence in Science Teaching program annually recognizes up to eight educators drawn from early childhood education, elementary school, middle school, high school, higher education, and informal science education. Each awardee receives local and state recognition, a one-year WSTA membership, and a $500 honorarium. Eligibility requires five or more years of science education experience and current work as a part-time or full-time science educator in Washington State. The program emphasizes culturally responsive science education for underrepresented groups, science education beyond the classroom, enthusiasm for teaching science, positive impact on student learning, and participation in local or state science activities or professional development. WSTA also partners with the Washington Department of Ecology on the Green Chemistry and Sustainable Design Teaching Award for Washington K-12 teachers who use green chemistry or sustainable design of materials lessons and units. That award includes a $500 honorarium and free registration for the fall WSTA Conference. In addition, the Peggy Vatter Memorial Leadership Scholarship makes up to $2,000 available each year for one pre-service teacher or one or more certified teachers pursuing science education coursework or certification-related study in Washington. Across these programs, WSTA directs support to Washington educators, including teachers serving underrepresented students in science.