Being a Presidential Awardee is an honor and a symbol of my commitment to excellence and innovation in STEM education. As an educator, I am dedicated to fostering a culture of curiosity, creativity, and critical thinking within my students. The Presidential Award is truly a reflection of the impact my mentors and students have had on me as an educator. I am honored and excited to join a wonderful community of educators committed to shaping the next generation of science-minded citizens.

Sandra Crusa Tucson, AZ | 7-12, Science, 2023

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

Sandra Crusa has been an educator for 10 years and has spent the last four years teaching Advanced Placement Biology and Honors Biology to students across grades 9-12 at Mica Mountain High School. She previously taught Freshman Physics and Biology at Empire High school for her first six years of teaching. Sandra’s love of teaching goes beyond the classroom. She coaches both cross country and track and field and sponsors several clubs on campus, including Pro-Team, a club driven by student interest in diving deeper into the biomolecular world of science. Sandra partners with the Arizona Trail Association’s Seeds of Stewardship program to provide opportunities for her students to learn about science outdoors. She provides educational and meaningful outdoor experiences that empower her students to become the next generation of stewards of Arizona's wild landscapes. Sandra serves as a member of the Teacher Model Program for 3D Molecular Designs, a group of ambassadors for the science and pedagogy of using models in the classroom. She is also a member of the Arizona Science Teachers Association and the National Association of Biology Teachers. Sandra earned her B.S. in biology from St. Mary’s University in San Antonio, TX, and her master’s degree in secondary education from the University of Arizona. She is a National Board Certified Teacher.

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