Brewster High School Science teacher Brittany Kozlenko received the nation's highest honor for teachers of science, technology, engineering, and mathematics.
This week, President Biden announced 336 teachers and mentors from around the nation as recipients of the Presidential Awards for Excellence in Mathematics and Science Teaching and the Presidential Awards for Excellence in Science, Mathematics, and Engineering Mentoring. These awards honor the vital role that America’s teachers and mentors play in shaping the next generation of technical leaders, including scientists, engineers, explorers, and innovators. Brittany Kozlenko, physics teacher at BHS received this honor. She is one of only six teachers in NY State to receive the award this year.
“It is recognition of the hard work STEM teachers, in particular, do on a daily basis to pass on our passion to our students,” said Kozlenko, “I view recipients as teachers who continually look for better ways to engage students and make learning more meaningful. Awardees want to make STEM education better, not just for their own students, but for all students. Receiving the Presidential Award is an honor that I will continue to work to be worthy of for the rest of my career.”
Dr. Brittany Kozlenko has been a teacher at Brewster High School for the past 17 years. She has taught 9-12th grade Advanced Placement Physics, along with introductory physics classes and robotics electives throughout her tenure.
After being trained on computational modeling, Dr. Kozlenko has been working towards implementing this approach in her classroom. She uses a variety of ways to engage students, constantly fine tuning her pedagogy. Her passion for STEM education extends beyond the classroom. She has taken on the role of Science Liaison as well as advocating for the creation of a K-12 Science Articulation Committee within her district. She is also a member of the Curriculum, Instruction, and Assessment Committee. On professional development days, she has run workshops on Project Based Learning, Flipped Classrooms, and Integrating Technology.
“Dr. Kozlenko inspires learning through her innovative pedagogy and infectious enthusiasm,” said BHS Principal Nicole Horler, “Students use computational modeling to navigate Dr. Kozlenko's classes. She is that out of the box teacher that serves as an instructional leader for her students and all of Brewster High School.”
Brewster Central School District congratulates Dr. Kozlenko for this prestigious honor. It is a testament to her dedication to fostering innovation and excellence in STEM education and her commitment to preparing BCSD students for a bright future.