BAKER — Teacher Stacy Burlison’s efforts to educate Baker School students in science, technology, engineering and mathematics have attracted the Air Force’s attention and recognition.
Burlison has been named the Hurlburt Chapter 398’s Teacher of the Year. The Hurlburt AFA — part of the state and national AFA, operated by retired and active military personnel and volunteers — helps educate the public on aerospace technology’s importance. The non-profit organization particularly supports STEM education.
Burlison, a Baker teacher for four years, said she is focused on teaching middle school and high school students, and that she has a goal in mind.
"The initial thought of it was to bring more engineers out of Baker," she said.
Thomas Shipp, the school’s principal, stated in an email that the school is proud of Burlison and her accomplishment.
"She fully deserves this award. She has been a leader in STEM education in our school by sponsoring several competitive engineering and robotics teams, co-sponsoring a STEM club, teaching two middle school STEM electives, and excelling as a physics and advanced math teacher,” he said.
“She has logged many extra miles to serve our students who have interests in science, technology, engineering, and math. She helps make learning fun.”
For instance, Burlison had created a murder mystery, in which students must use physics knowledge to solve the crime.
"I am one of those cooky teachers," she said. "I try to keep it entertaining."
In addition to receiving a plaque from the Hurlburt chapter, Burlison will receive a $250 donation. The school will receive the same amount as a grant.
Burlison plans to use the money toward her classroom, which she said could use an iPad. The tablet would further students’ technology-based education.
She also will receive a one-year membership to the AFA, which includes a one-year subscription to Air Force Magazine and full access to the organization’s many resources. The local AFA could link area teachers to Air Force engineers or personnel who could come to the school and speak to the students.
"As a chapter, we recognize elementary, middle and high school teachers," said John Jogerst, a Hurlburt officer. "We recognize these teachers who impact their students."
Contact News Bulletin Staff Writer Matthew Brown at 850-682-6524 or matthewb@crestviewbulletin.com. Follow him on Twitter @cnbMatthew.
This article originally appeared on Crestview News Bulletin: Baker teacher recognized for STEM work