YouScience® Innovative Educator Award

Honoring the innovation and impact of educators

The YouScience® Innovative Educator Award recognizes the exceptional contributions of educators in guiding and inspiring students to explore their aptitudes and make informed decisions about their futures.

Innovative Educator Award Winners

Malinda Sommers

Career Coach, Scottsboro High School, Alabama

Dr. Treesomia Walker

Former CTAE Director and Assistant Principal, Lamar County School System, Georgia

Candice Sears

Former Director of Instructional Services, Montgomery County Educational Service Center, Ohio

Danielle Green

CTE Business Educator, Santee Education Complex, Los Angeles Unified School District, California

Jason Van Nus

Director of Work-based Learning and Youth Apprenticeship Programs, Lowndes County Schools in Valdosta, Georgia

Jon Butler, Michael Hassler, and Helene Morse

CTE Team, Washington School District in St. George, Utah

Margaret Rice

CTE Director, Washougal School District in Washougal, Washington

Jessica McAllister

Secondary Programs Coordinator, Lewis-Palmer School District in Monument, Colorado

Kathy Peres

Business Instructor, Blue Valley High School in Stillwell, Kansas

Zachary Knapp

CTE Educator, Vale Middle School in Vale, Oregon

Darlene Goff

School Counselor, Chester County Schools in Henderson, Tennessee

Steven Mazzola

Principal, Saunders Trades and Technical High School in Yonkers, New York

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About the award

YouScience is committed to honoring and celebrating the incredible work educators do for students and our communities. This award is one way we make good on that promise. The Innovative Educator Award celebrates educators committed to fostering a positive, forward-thinking educational environment that prioritizes student success and future readiness using YouScience products.

Quotes

“Mrs. Malinda Sommers has spent her career pouring into the lives of Scottsboro students. Her passion and love for our kids prompted us to maximize her impact by placing her as our system’s Career Coach. Mrs. Sommers uses YouScience to help our students recognize their interests and aptitudes, and help them select courses that better prepare them for a career that will provide them with lifelong fulfillment.”

— Jason Hass, Interim Superintendent, Scottsboro City Schools

“Mr. Mazzola is the personification of a true educational warrior! Under his nearly 20-year tenure as Principal of Saunders Trades and Technical High School, Mr. Mazzola challenged all staff and students to maximize their full potential. Leading by example, he never stopped loving the classroom or lost his passion for teaching, and he maintained his role as teacher in his capacity as Principal. He expanded the 112 years of traditions and maintained the legacy of what being a part of the Saunders family is about. At the helm, Mr. Mazzola fostered relationships with parents, staff, and students—making Saunders a second home where every member is loved, appreciated, and respected.”

— Christina Nola, Assistant Principal of Saunders Trades and Technical High School

“School Counselor Darlene Goff’s unwavering dedication and innovative approach have revolutionized the educational experience at Chester County Junior High School. By empowering students to discover their unique pathways and providing personalized guidance, she has transformed their futures. Through her tireless efforts, Darlene has not only made a difference in the lives of countless students but has paved the way for a more meaningful and impactful educational journey. Her commitment to student success is truly inspiring.”

— Dr. Belinda Anderson, Principal, Chester County Junior High School

Nominate an educator today

Educators, students, and parents are encouraged to nominate deserving educators who are making a significant impact in students’ career exploration using YouScience products.