Karen Dipres

Each year the President of the U.S. recognizes outstanding K-12 science and math teachers throughout the country. One math and one science educator is chosen from each state who exemplifies deep content knowledge combined with the ability to motivate students in science and math.

Karen Dipres finds that science is always her students’ favorite subject because of its hands-on nature. “Science is an exciting subject to teach and a fascinating subject to learn,” she said. For example, students love my organisms unit because they are given the opportunity to closely examine land plants and animals as they create a terrarium habitat.” Dipres describes her teaching style as inspiring and intriguing, aiming to motivate her students to strive to become better people and challenge themselves along the way.

I try to help students feel at ease about learning new information or skills by allowing them to share their own experiences. I have found that listening to peers explain their feelings about learning new things puts other students at ease and leaves them more susceptible to change. I also make an effort to build a strong rapport with my students, use humor in class, and teach my students that mistakes can be corrected. Whatever it takes to make my students comfortable and for them to realize that learning is fun!