2000 NCSTA Award Winners

Distinguished Service to Science Education Award-Administrator

Peggy Sue Nations--Fairview Elementary School

Sue Nations is the principal at Fairview Elementary School in Sylva, N.C., a k-8 school. In today's test-driven atmosphere, she sees the need and takes action to encourage "hands-on" science education wherever possible. One main focus has been the school's outdoor classroom called WildWatch. Starting with a natural wetland area on the school grounds, Sue motivated the teachers, students and parents to develop the site with the help of UTOTES and to integrated all areas of the curriculum into its use. All grade levels have learning stations at the site. Other programs such as Globe have helped to marry the NC Standard Course of Study with their emphasis on environmental education. While other administrators may turn a blind eye as science is delegated "to the back burner" in education, Sue continually encourages her teachers to use science to stimulate and excite learning in all subject areas. And for this we thank you.