Two teachers in the Lehi area have been honored with the Texas Instruments Foundation Innovations in STEM Teaching Awards. Stephanie Billings, a sixth-grade teacher at Sego Lily Elementary, and Karre Nevarez, a science teacher at Mountain Ridge Junior High, each received $10,000, which is split equally between their classrooms and as personal awards.
Award details and recipients
The awards from technology leader Texas Instruments recognize excellence and innovation in STEM education. This marks the second year of the program in the Alpine School District and the first time both an elementary and a secondary teacher have received the honor.
Presentation ceremony details
The awards were presented in the teachers' classrooms on April 27, with attendees including students, members of the TI Foundation, and Alpine School District officials. Each school was permitted to nominate a teacher for the program.
TI Foundation mission statement
Andy Smith, executive director of the TI Foundation, stated that excellence in STEM education involves adapting to learning styles, encouraging reluctant students, and making STEM exciting to prepare students for future careers.
Billings' classroom improvement plans
Mrs. Billings expressed her honor at receiving the award and plans to use her grant to create a flexible learning environment featuring alternative seating like wiggle seats, floor seating, and lap desks to improve student engagement. She also intends to purchase items for hands-on STEM lessons designed to spark creativity.
Nevarez's new AI project lab
Karre Nevarez noted that the recognition holds deep meaning after decades of teaching and advocating for STEM. With her grant, she plans to establish a semester-long, AI-supported Personal Passion Project Lab. This lab will utilize DevOps-inspired principles such as collaboration and rapid iteration to allow students to tackle real-world problems using emerging technology.
Impact on Utah educators
Vigue, the executive director of the Alpine School District Foundation, noted that the awardees' efforts are inspiring for their students, peers, and educators throughout Utah.
Vigue also emphasized the importance of the partnership with Texas Instruments, stating that the award honors educators who teach critical thinking and 21st-century skills while supporting outstanding work within local schools.
