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Shell

Science Teaching Award

 

  

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Program Summary

A partnership between Shell USA, Inc. and the National Science Teaching Association (NSTA), this award recognizes one outstanding classroom teacher (grades K–12) who has had a positive impact on his or her students, school, and the community through exemplary science teaching. Special projects may be mentioned but should not be the main focus of the candidate’s application.

 

Apply or nominate a colleague today!

Deadline extension to complete your Shell Teaching Awards application: December 19, 2025

Eligibility

Applicants must be classroom teachers whose responsibilities include teaching science. Applicants must have a minimum of eight (8) years of experience (not including the current school year) as a teacher of science and must teach in a public or private school in the United States, U.S. Territories, Department of Defense schools, or in Canada.

Award

The Shell Science Teaching Award recipient will receive $10,000. The recipient and the two finalists will each receive an expense‐paid trip to attend the NSTA National Conference on Science Education. During the conference, they will be honored at the Shell Reception. The 10 semifinalists will receive certificates of distinction.

Submission Requirements

Requirements

Applications should reflect national science education standards and must include the following information in the order presented:

  • Curriculum vitae (maximum length of two pages, character equivalent) that details the applicant’s teaching experience, professional activities, formal and continuing education, awards and publications, and community involvement. This should not be a narrative;
  • Safety. Include all elements of safety measures used in your classroom.(maximum length 300 words, character equivalent)
  • Schedule. One week’s schedule (i.e., 11 a.m.–12 p.m.: Env. Science, 1–2 p.m.: Special Ed.; 2–3 p.m.: Physical Science, G.T. students), including time and subject taught. Briefly describe content or thematic base of course and student demographics(one page, character equivalent);
  • Science Teaching Philosophy (maximum length of one page, character equivalent);
  • Instructional Method (maximum length of three pages, character equivalent). A description of the candidate’s classroom activitiesthat represent the nature of science; increase student knowledge and skills and enhance attitudes of science; employ unique methods to make science exciting and relevant; make connections among science, the student’s world, and the community; encourage scientific inquiry and problem solving; and impact a wide variety of students, including—but not limited to—those who may be at risk or have different abilities and opportunities. Show a connection between instructional method and the national science education standards, NGSS, three‐dimensional learning, or state standards if necessary. Optional pictures, articles, and other material may be added to this section (in the optional tabs) as long as it does not exceed the three‐page limit;
  • Letters of Support. Three letters of support from individuals or groups (maximum length of letters is two pages each). Letters can be single spaced. Letters sent separately will not be considered. Letters must be signed and dated accordingly, on letterhead if possible. Letters for the Shell Award should reflect applicant’s strengths, and accomplishments.

Upon receipt, all submissions become the property of NSTA. Applications will not be returned. Late or faxed applications will not be accepted. Completed applications must be received by December 19, 2025.

  

Questions?

Please feel free to e‐mail aupton@nsta.org

 

About the Sponsor Organization

Shell logo

Shell USA, Inc. is an affiliate of the Royal Dutch Shell plc, a global group of energy and petrochemical companies with operations in more than 70 countries. In the U.S., Shell USA Inc. operates in 50 states and employs more than 20,000 people working to help tackle the challenges of the new energy future.

FOR INQUIRIES CONTACT: Shell USA, Inc. Media Line 832-33-SHELL

  

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