Brian Whitson
District 6 Director
Nominee: Brian Whitson
Biographical Information on Nominee
Brian Whitson is a staunch supporter of STEM-based education and has promoted learning experiences that insure all North Carolina students possess scientific literacy and “can clearly distinguish valid science from non-valid information that masquerades as science”. He is a veteran educator with nearly twenty years of experience at both the middle and high school levels. He has worked as a chemistry instructor with NC Virtual Public School. Following fifteen years at Salisbury High School, Brian is currently the Technology Facilitator at China Grove Middle School. Brian has distinguished himself professionally, receiving the 2002 Salisbury-Rowan District Teacher of the Year award. He was also named the 2008 Geoffrey G. Eichholz Outstanding National Science Teacher 2008 (Health Physics Society) and was a finalist for the Burroughs Wellcome Career Award for Science and Mathematics Teacher in 2011. Brian’s professional service to the greater community includes that of participant in the summer 2004 Rotary International Group Study Exchange to Jamaica, and membership on the North Carolina Department of Public Instruction 2007-2008 Blue Ribbon Commission on Testing and Accountability.
A former North Carolina Teaching Fellow, Brian holds a Bachelor of Arts in Chemistry, a Bachelor of Arts in Science Education, and a Master of Arts in Educational Media. Brian is very active in the North Carolina Technology in Education Society (NCTIES) in which he frequently participates in activities designed to advance teaching and learning using instructional technology. He is also a member of the North Carolina Science Teachers Association, where he serves as interim District 6 Director.
Mission Statement
Scientific literacy is more important now that it has ever been previously. We must work vigorously to promote sound science teaching and ensure that our students are able to apply scientific concepts to solving real world problems. Additionally, we must be certain that our students are able to use what they learn in science class to decipher various political claims to validate their accuracy. If elected to this position, I will work tirelessly to promote the improvement of scientific literacy both in our region and state while ensuring that we provide highly quality support and professional learning to all science teachers. We must partner with outside agencies, businesses, and other community partners to provide high quality, engaging science instruction that allows all students the opportunity for access and success. As we move forward, we must continue to maintain rigorous and robust science classes that provided the needed skills and knowledge for students to compete globally.
