Cindy Stetzer

Galesville, WI | 7-12, Science, 2023

What motivates you to contribute to excellence in STEM teaching?

I relish encouraging students to pursue careers in science. I have stayed in contact with many former students and I am so motivated by all of the gains they have made in various fields of science. From research to medical professionals, many of my students are working to make our world a better place. Their success is fuel for my soul, encouraging me to always do the best I can for all children who walk through my classroom.

What has been the most transformative moment that affirmed your impact on STEM education?

During an unfortunate recent hospital stay, I had the privilege of being cared for by several former students. From the paramedic who initiated my care, to the doctor who admitted me and the nurses who provided my daily care, I was in awe of their skill and professionalism. It was not fun to be there and at times it was terrifying, but all of the compassion, empathy and skill, I poured into them was returned. I am so unbelievably proud of them. All of them. It was an honor to be healed by them and also it was affirming of my own practice. Sometimes teaching can be lonely and full of self doubt, but this experience helped me understand the importance of my work for my community and world. I was healed in many ways.

Using your platform as a Presidential Awardee, how do you hope to advance our nation in STEM?

As I get close to retirement, I continue to train other individuals to be great scientists and science teachers. The PAEMST program allowed me to elevate my work, building a transformative program, graduating multitudes of science professionals in all aspects of scientific work. I continue promoting the importance of great science teachers in every classroom and my district is supportive. I mentored two student teachers this past year and I am so hopeful my work will continue beyond my tenure.

Biography

Cindy Stetzer has taught for over 25 years. She has spent the last 20 years teaching high school for the Gale-Ettrick-Trempealeau School District. Previously, she taught at Aquinas High School for five years. Before teaching, Cindy was a wildlife technician with the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources studying snapping turtles, on the Upper Mississippi River. This work gave Cindy a passion for discovery. Her love of science shines through in her teaching. She encourages all students to think like scientists. Cindy has mentored students as they presented research at state and national level competitions. She instituted post-secondary opportunities by teaching as an adjunct for the University of Wisconsin – Oshkosh. High school students take her course as either Advanced Placement Biology or Biology 105, allowing them to take the path best suited to their needs. In 2023, she received the Adjunct of the Year award for her dedication. In addition to biology, Cindy teaches anatomy and physiology. She has established partnerships with medical facilities and universities to help students engage with medical careers. During in-service days, Cindy has led training for elementary and middle school teachers to institute inquiry-based, Next Generation Science Standards across all district science coursework. Her passion for helping both students and teachers learn, wonder, and discover has created many new and innovative methods throughout the district. Cindy earned a B.S. in secondary education and M.Ed. from the University of Wisconsin – La Crosse, as well as accreditation to teach as an adjunct through the University of Wisconsin – Oshkosh. Cindy is certified in biology and broadfield science at the secondary level.

High-resolution version of the teacher profile photograph

The views expressed in awardee profiles are those of the author and do not necessarily reflect the views of NSF or the PAEMST program.