Mrs. Kurtz Wins 2024 Illinois Science Teaching Association Middle School Educator Award
Congratulations to our upper school science teacher, Mrs. Kurtz, on winning the 2024 ISTA Middle School Award! We’re grateful for Mrs. Kurtz dedication to inspiring students' passion for science and scientific discovery.
PINGREE GROVE - The Illinois Science Teaching Association (ISTA) has selected Cambridge Lakes Charter School (CLCS) Teacher Rachel Kurtz as the 2024 ISTA Middle School Educator Award winner. Kurtz has been an educator for over 10 years and has been teaching at CLCS for 5 years.
On Monday, October 14, 2024, Kurtz will be presented the award at the Annual ISTA Membership Meeting at NIU.
“It's interesting to know how the world works. And that is what science is … understanding the world around you. Being able to think in a way that you can connect it all together and understand the cause and effect of things, ” said Kurtz.
Before joining CLCS, Kurtz taught preschool at another school. She later pursued her Bachelor's degree in Elementary Education from Western Governors University and then earned her Master's degree from the American College of Education.
Kurtz has been part of CLCS for 5 years. During her time as an educator, Kurtz has also been a mentor and leader for other teachers. Her focus has been on teaching middle school science to 7th - 8th graders. Kurtz has implemented various teaching strategies and integrates technology into her classroom.
Kurtz remains a positive influence on her colleagues and students. This year, Kurtz intends to further encourage students and their science exploration by fostering an environment that encourages them to ask questions and pursue problem-solving.
