My passion for education, particularly in science, was inspired by my students. I strive to educate by being a model of love, dedication, and excitement for learning. Being nominated for a Presidential Award was a positive affirmation of what I’ve been striving to teach my students each day. Through this prestigious honor, I can share with them a tangible example of how being a lifelong learner and never giving up on your dreams can allow you, no matter who you are, to achieve great feats.

Cassie Kautzer Springdale, AR | K-6, Science, 2014

The official biography below was current at the time of the award.

Cassie Kautzer has been an educator for eight years, most recently teaching sixth grade science at Hellstern Middle School. Previously, Cassie taught fifth grade mathematics and science at Monitor Elementary School. With a true passion for both student and personal lifelong learning, Cassie has sought specialized professional development opportunities. In 2015, she attended the Real World Science Seminar at the National WWII Museum to collaborate with other master educators to promote real-world connections in history and science. Cassie was a 2014 NOAA Teacher at Sea, where she worked and studied alongside hydrographic scientists outside of Kodiak, AK. She is also a graduate of the 2012 Honeywell Educators at Space Academy and the 2010 Mickelson ExxonMobil Teachers Academy. A recipient of several teaching awards and grants, Cassie taught students to build and program mini robotics and collect longitudinal data through science experiments, and engaged students in studies of the natural environment through a state park partnership. Cassie’s dedication to education is seen in her classroom each day, described by colleagues as “rigorous, hands-on, and connected to the real world.” Cassie has a B.S., cum laude, in education from the University of Wisconsin-Oshkosh and is a National Board Certified Teacher in Early Adolescence/Mathematics.

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