May is always a busy and exciting time of the year for students, educators, and families. During this time, we celebrate the success of our students through science competitions, community presentations, and ceremonies. At the same time, educators are standing back with big, proud smiles and reflecting on how much their students have grown and developed over the year. It is time to move our educators out of the shadows and share the impact they are making on their students’ lives.

I encourage everyone to place the spotlight on our science educators and step back with a big proud smile while thanking them for devoting their weekdays, weekends, and evenings to help our kids grow into scientifically literate individuals. All this time and commitment to develop future scientists doesn’t produce immediate results: After hearing from former students, our educators can see their work in action because they are the ones who have impacted every adult science professional in our country.

Every day I have the privilege of working with incredible science educators across the country. Their efforts to assure that all students have unique opportunities and experiences in science goes above and beyond what is expected of them daily. When in the same room as my fellow science educators, I feel a sense of pride. I want to thank each one of you for the incredible work you are doing to build the science future!

Elizabeth Mulkerrin, Ed.D., is president of the National Science Teaching Association. Her term began on June 1, 2022, and concludes on June 1, 2023. A desire for lifelong science learning and a passion for the natural world brought high school science educator Mulkerrin to the Omaha Zoo and Aquarium, where she has served as Vice President of Education since 2000.

The mission of NSTA is to transform science education to benefit all through professional learning, partnerships, and advocacy.