Welcome to HASTI

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.

2008 Clyde Motts Award Recipient - Bayan Mujawaz Biology teacher at Brebeuf Preparatory School in Indianapolis, Indiana I started my undergraduate studies at the University of Toronto in Toronto, Canada. I moved to Indianapolis in 2004 and finished my B.S. in Life Science Teaching from the University of Indianapolis in 2006 (I was on the Annual Honor Roll for the two academic years when I was there). I did my student teaching at Perry Meridian High School and in Decatur township schools. This is my second year teaching Biology I at Brebeuf Jesuit Preparatory School. For as long as I can remember, my two passions have been science and teaching. When I combined the two, I found myself able to give students beyond the required contents of the textbook. Besides teaching my students the contents of biology, I find myself teaching them the skills of effective reading and studying. I teach them study skills which can be applied to any of their courses, including biology. I want my students to succeed in whatever field they choose. I realize that not all my students love biology or want to become scientists, but I design my lessons in such a way to give students an appreciation of the work that science has achieved over the past centuries. My future plans include getting my Master’s degree and doing post-graduate research in science education. "My aim is to guide students in developing the skills and knowledge necessary to become effective contributors in society. As a teacher, I hope to motivate students to do their best and extend their own limits."

2005 Clyde Motts Award Recipient - Scott Powell Scott Powell grew up in Indianapolis and graduated from North Central H.S. in 1989. Not having any plans upon graduation, he spent many years as an unskilled worker. THroughout this time period, Scott developed an interest in science and read a multitude of science-related books. He soon became bothered b the level of scientific literacy in the general public. After moving around the country for a few years, Scott realized that he was looking for something that would be more rewarding. He decided to come back to Indiana and go to Purdue but not quite sure what degree to pursue. In spite of the fact that both of his parents were teachers, teaching had never really occurred to him. Ultimately, Scott said, "It seemed like the kind of career I was looking for: I am able to promote scientific literacy and each day is a new challenge." Scott has been teaching biology for two and a half years and says he loved it more and more. "Of course teaching is rewarding and full of great challenges, but sometimes I think I just do it because it's so much fun." - Scott Powell

2004 Clyde Motts Award Recipient -Walter Steven Riggle Walter Steven Riggle (Steve), a physics and chemistry teacher at Salem High School is being recognized with the 2004 Clyde Motts Memorial Award as an outstanding and innovative high school science teacher. Steve Riggle abandoned a successful career in the field of retail business in search of a career where he felt he could make a difference in the lives of people. His journey began at Indiana University Southeast that culminated in a degree that enabled him to teach science. Steve has grown professionally through his active involvement in HASTI. He became a member while completing his students teaching and has attended the annual convention in Indianapolis each year. Steve is active in building-level staff development where he has shared successful teaching strategies with colleagues. His efforts have been inspirational to novice and experienced teachers. Steve is an assistant coach of the Science Olympiad Team and helps with the Science Club. As a nontraditional graduate, Steve brought a wealth of life experiences to the classroom that have helped to make his lessons exciting and relevant to all students. He inspires students who are struggling to graduate from learning science by doing science where lecture is used infrequently and one on one interaction between student and teacher is the norm rather than the exception. Steve has also demonstrated a spirit of compassion and cooperation with his fellow Salem High School colleagues. He has unselfishly served his fellow teachers in times of need creating a wealth of valued friends. HASTI is pleased to award the 2004 Clyde Motts Memorial Award to this outstanding teacher of only 4 years. It has been said of Steve that even though he is a second career teacher, he comes to work with the energy and excitement of a man in his twenties. He has embraced science education and is working everyday to create more ways for his students to learn.

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.