Snow Hill - Andrea Aldridge, Snow Hill Primary STEM Lab teacher/coordinator, was recently honored at the North Carolina Science Teachers Association Conference with the District Outstanding Science Teacher ward for Exemplary Leadership and Innovation.

Dr. Jose Garcia, Director of Curriculum and STEM Education for Greene County Schools shared “These awards are developed and given to teachers to recognize excellence in science teaching in North Carolina and to teachers who exemplify excellent, creative, innovative teaching of science. The award is open to teachers at the elementary, middle, and high school grade levels. The award recipients receive one year's membership to the North Carolina Science Teacher's Association (NCSTA) and are recognized by peers at an NCSTA formal ceremony. “

Aldridge was honored with the award for her “commitment to education and exceptional leadership skills” according to the announcement shared by the NCSTA. She has served as a teacher at Snow Hill Primary in multiple roles. She started as a Kindergarten teacher and then became part of the STEM program. Currently, she serves as part of the school’s encore or elective team leading a STEM class for all students in the building.

Garcia shared that Aldrige’s impact has gone far beyond the classroom. “ Her leadership journey includes roles as a mentor, STEM Teacher Leadership Academy facilitator, Science-STEM Canvas repository developer, STEM Education Lab teacher, and mini-Maker club advisor.” He went on to share that “Her diverse contributions showcase a commitment to fostering a holistic learning environment that goes beyond traditional teaching methods”.

Aldridge shared “To receive this award from an organization I admire so much makes me happy and grateful. I am happy to represent Greene County Schools and I am extremely grateful for the people in this county who have helped me throughout my career. STEM is near and dear to my heart, I can't wait to learn more and further my knowledge about the subject to benefit the students in Greene County Schools. “

In addition to Aldridge, Garcia himself was honored with the Exemplary Service Award for his work to further STEM Education throughout the state.