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Illinois Science Teaching Association

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Illinois Science Teaching Association Awards

ISTA proudly recognizes excellence in science education across Illinois through the following award programs. For questions about awards, or to recommend or sponsor new awards, please contact Nicole Vick at presidentelect@ilscience.org or Dina Lemmer at executivedirector@ilscience.org

ISTA Member Awardees

The ISTA Member Awardees program recognized all elementary, science, mathematics, engineering, and/or computer science educators in the state of Illinois that have been nominated for Illinois Teacher of the Year, NSTA Awards and recognitions, and/or the Presidential Awards for Excellence in Science Teaching with an honorary 1 year membership.  

Excellence in Science Awards 

The Excellence in Science Program, formally known as the Student Medallion Program, has been a long standing program made possible with support from the Illinois Petroleum Resource Board. ISTA members can request one free signed Outstanding Science Student Award certificate and medallion to present to an outstanding science  student at the end of the school year! New in 2021 is the Future Leaders in Science Education for recognizing excellence in pre-service science teachers. Additional medallions can be purchased for a fee, and will be available for ordering in the spring of each year through our website. For more information about the Excellence  in Science Award Program, contact Bob Wolffe at finance@ilscience.org


Orders for Outstanding Science Student Awards for 2023-24 are now open! 


    ISTA Educator Awards

    *NEW THIS YEAR* 

    Do you know an outstanding science teacher that deserves recognition for the work they are doing in their school or community? Our new ISTA Educator Award Program was established this year to recognize teachers and the work that they do and is open to formal and informal educators alike!

    When the nomination window opens, nominate your favorite science educators by filling out the nomination form. Our awards committee will reach out letting them know they have been nominated by a colleague and inviting them to apply. Excellent educators will be selected for Elementary School, Middle School, High School, Informal Education programs and Post-Secondary! 

    Nominate your favorite science educator here!

    About us

    We are a membership-based organization dedicated to promoting excellence in science teaching and learning throughout Illinois.   As the state chapter of the NSTA, the Illinois Science Teaching Association (ISTA) serves as a local resource for science educators in Illinois.

    Become a member

    Join the professional network of educators influencing science education in Illinois.  

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