To be nominated for and receive the Presidential Award is a truly distinguished honor. This recognition highlights the dedication to reflection and growth required to bring the best version of yourself into the classroom. Celebrating the accomplishment of engaging youth in equitable learning opportunities, the award also acknowledges the bravery in teaching through relationships. Although our profession is challenging, this honor reminds us that ambitious science teaching is valued!

Dylan Fedell Kintnersville, PA | 7-12, Science, 2023

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

Dylan James Fedell has been a science educator for over 12 years. For the past eight years, he has taught chemistry, physics, and engineering to grades 9-12 at Palisades High School. His previous roles include over a year at Renaissance Academy Charter School, three years at the Center for Student Learning Charter School, and a year at Central Bucks High School East. Outside the classroom, Dylan is the founder and advisor to the STEM Outreach Club and Chief Science Officers. These two popular student groups collaborate with school leaders and outside organizations to plan and organize annual STEM events. These well-attended events include STEM Night, Youth Climate Summit, and elementary afterschool STEM club. Dylan’s career highlights a passion for engaging students in science. Influenced by his educational experiences, he inspires students to connect their learning to their lives. Through the NSF-funded USTRIVE program (Understanding STEM Teaching Through Integrated Contexts in Everyday Life), he developed a curriculum that teaches physics through socio-scientific issues (SSI). This curriculum motivates students to take action on personal positions regarding controversial questions rooted in their daily experiences, such as “Is our school zone speed limit adequate?” Over the past two years, Dylan has presented sessions on incorporating SSI into science curricula at regional, state, and national conferences. He has also recently submitted an article for publication in The Physics Teacher journal. Dylan holds a B.S. in secondary education from Delaware Valley College and an M.Ed., with distinction, in science education from Arcadia University. He has a STEM endorsement from the state and is certified to teach chemistry, physics, and mathematics to grades 7-12.

Know a great teacher like Dylan Fedell? Nominate them for PAEMST!