The Presidential Award brings to light the exceptional learning experiences occurring in science classrooms and acknowledges teacher leaders who are shaped by years of learning, mentorship, reflection, growth, and collaboration. This award also recognizes the critical role of educators to inspire and build every student while creating a scientifically-literate community. I am honored to represent the countless dedicated, driven, selfless educators who inspire students every day.

Sarah Urban Helena, MT | 7-12, Science, 2023

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

Sarah Urban has been an educator for 22 years, with the last 20 teaching science at Capital High School. She previously taught at Helena High School and Fremont Middle School. As a lifelong learner, Sarah instills a growth mindset in her 9-12th grade Honors Biology and Advanced Placement Biology students by encouraging them to ask questions, build models, and pursue extensions to learning both in and out of the classroom. Sarah stays current in science content and engages students in relevant, authentic science experiences and real-world learning through collaboration in programs like the National Institute of Health Science Education Partnership Award (SEPA) programs. These include Phages Helping Acquire Genuine Experiences in Science (PHAGES) through Montana Technological University, Research Education on Air and Cardiovascular Health (REACH) with University of Montana, and as a model teacher through 3D Molecular Designs (Tomorrow’s Science Today: Preparing for the Next Pandemic). Through these partnerships, her students have the opportunity to discover bacteriophages, to present research projects at state and national competitions, and to be immersed in conceptual and hands-on modeling. Sarah earned a B.S., magna cum laude, in cellular biology from Western Washington University and a master’s in teaching degree with an emphasis in secondary education from Whitworth University. She is certified in secondary biology, chemistry, and broadfield science, and is a National Board Certified Teacher in adolescent and young adult biology.

Know a great teacher like Sarah Urban? Nominate them for PAEMST!