Receiving the Presidential Award is incredibly humbling. The award is validation for the countless hours I have spent inside and outside of the classroom fostering creativity and a love for science and engineering in my students. I am extremely honored to receive this award, but it is not mine alone. It is only through the hard work and support of my students, colleagues, family, and community that I am able to devote myself to my passion for teaching and continue to grow and improve my craft.
The official biography below was current at the time of the award.
Rebekah Hammack has been a science educator at Stillwater Middle School for 10 years. She teaches robotics, environmental engineering, biomedical science, and 3D computer-aided design to sixth and seventh graders. Rebekah is also an Adjunct Professor at Oklahoma State University, where she teaches a middle-level education course for preservice elementary teachers. Rebekah created an after-school engineering mentoring program for girls and teaches at engineering-focused summer camps. Rebekah also started a Technology Student Association chapter at her school and takes students to state and national competitions. Rebekah has received over $90,000 in grants and awards to enhance engineering education in her school and state. She served as the project manager for a Math Science Partnership grant to provide engineering-focused professional development to Oklahoma elementary teachers. Rebekah has also presented professional development at numerous local, state, and national events. Rebekah holds a B.S. in agriculture from The Ohio State University, a M.S. in animal science from Oklahoma State University, and a Ph.D. in science education at Oklahoma State University. She holds National Board Certification in Early Adolescent Science and certifications in fifth through eighth grade science, biological sciences, physical science, and chemistry.
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