The Clyde Motts Memorial Award for Innovative High School Science Teaching

 

The Clyde Motts Award for Innovative High School Science Teaching is awarded annually by the Hoosier Association of Science Teachers, Inc. to an outstanding new high school teacher who exhibits a passion for innovative science teaching.

Nominees must be full-time classroom teachers in the state of Indiana with 5 or fewer years of teaching experience.(Certified Science Teacher in Grades 9-12 )

You may nominate someone for this award with this form.

The nominator must be a current HASTI member.

The nominee may, but is not required, to be a current HASTI member.

2011 Clyde Motts Memorial Award for Innovative High School Teaching Recipient—Allison Nixon
Allison is a Chemistry and Integrated Chemistry/Physics Teacher at Franklin Central High School in Indianapolis, IN.

Allison Nixon grew up in Indianapolis and graduated from Pike High School in 2004. After high school, Allison attended Purdue University to pursue a career in science studying chemistry and chemistry education. She decided that becoming a science teacher would be a great way to combine her love for science and interest in teaching. Since graduating from Purdue University in 2008, Allison has been teaching at Franklin Central High School. She is currently in her third year of teaching.

In the classroom, Allison strives to not only give students a general understanding of chemistry, but to also prepare them with the knowledge and critical thinking skills necessary for life after high school. She does this through a combination of discovery activities, discussion, labs, and group work that allow students to make connections to the real world.

“What I love most about teaching is that every day in the classroom is different. Each day brings new challenges and opportunities to instill a love of science in my students. “

 Allison Nixon
   

2003 Clyde Motts Award Recipient - David R. James

David R. James, a fourth year Physics teacher at Brebeuf Jesuit Preparatory School in Indianapolis, Indiana has been awarded the 2003 Clyde Motts Memorial Award for Innovative High School Science Teaching.

David James has been recognized because of his willingness to create interesting and interactive lessons that make physics understandable and interesting to his students. David has demonstrated a willingness to listen and learn from experienced teachers as well as share his ideas about what works with students. How to improve daily content, what needs to be considered to actively engage students, how to excite them about learning science and the importance of providing opportunities for them to grow in their knowledge of science are just a few of the conversations David encourages.

David models for students that physics is understandable, logical and makes sense. As his students master the concepts and applications, they also develop an appreciation for the beauty of the intricacies of physics and are in awe of how these intricacies are consistent and intertwined. David is also a master helping students make the connections between what they are learning in their math classes and what they are learning in physics. He reinforces those "Ah ha" moments when students realize that the disciplines are unique and unrelated but are two parts of the same picture - that physics is applied mathematics.

David James is generous in giving his time to support the overall development of students at Brebeuf. He is a faculty advisor of the school's Brain Games team, has formed an Astronomy Club and attends and routinely supports social and sporting events.

HASTI is proud to honor David's tireless energy and enthusiasm for science. It is apparent that he has and will continue to be an inspiration to his students and colleagues.