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Bird Middle science teacher David Kujawski has received an award from the Goldin Foundation for Excellence in Education.
Every year, the Goldin Foundation selects several teachers to recognize who "have made outstanding contributions in their classrooms, schools and communities,” according to the Goldin Foundation’s website. This year, among several other educators in the area to receive awards was Bird Middle science teacher David Kujawski
The sixth grade science teacher has been teaching science at Bird Middle since 2008. In addition to teaching in the classroom, Kujawski is also heavily involved in helping to advance science education with his peers.
Last year, he spent his free time developing lesson plans that align with the Next Generation Science Standards, a standardized science curriculum used in over 26 states. He offers his lesson plans online for other educators to download free of charge.
He has also published several articles relating to teaching in the Science Scope, the official publication of the National Science Teacher’s Association.
Several weeks ago, he received word that he had received the award. He noted how thankful he was to have his work recognized.
“It is always nice to be recognized for hard work and dedication,” Kujawski said. “I am honored to receive the award that has been given to so many other prominent educators in our area. I share this award with every colleague who has supported me through the years. I wouldn't be the teacher that I am today without their help.”
For Kujawski, the announcement did come as a surprise. He only received the word that he had even been nominated after he had already been selected to receive the award.
“I had no idea that I was nominated,” Kujawski said. “It was a pleasant surprise.”
Kujawski and several other educators in the area who were recognized by the Goldin Foundation will officially be recognized at a reception in May.
