Meet the 2015 Georgia Science Teachers of the Year The following three outstanding educators each hold this year’s title of Science Teacher of the Year by the Georgia Science Teachers Association. HIGH SCHOOL Brandie Freeman AP Environmental Science Teacher Woodland High School Bartow County Brandie Freeman’s students “walk away with excitement and real-world interests in her content area,” said colleague Heather Lovelace Carter. Claire Haley, a second-year honor student at the University of Georgia, agrees. “Once I arrived at college, I began to realize the full impact of Mrs. Freeman’s teachings. In my international affairs courses, I am regularly asked to analyze concepts [regarding] international environmental issues that were first introduced to me in detail by Mrs. Freeman. Mrs. Freeman did not shy away from difficult or advanced concepts, but rather pushed her students to think critically about the tough issues.” According to Woodland High Principal Melissa Williams, PhD., Freeman is an excellent teacher-leader. “She is knowledgeable of current research and trends in education and provides amazing insight and problemsolving skills to complex situations.” 22 PAGE ONE
Freeman has been using the flipped classroom model for the past couple of years. Due to her technology initiatives and blended classroom approach, she was chosen by the district to lead the implementation of the Blackboard virtual learning program. The school has a robust AP science program, and on last year’s AP science test, more than 85% of the participants scored 3 or higher. The mean was 3.79. Freeman has also secured several grants to ensure that students have textbooks, up-to-date technology and labs. One was from the National Weather Association. “Through Brandie’s hard work, Bartow County graciously even bought WHS a classroom set of SPARK Science Learning System tablets,” said Carter. MIDDLE SCHOOL
Robert Hodgdon 7th Grade Advanced Content Science Teacher Richmond Hill Middle School Bryan County Through Robert Hodgdon’s field studies program, students, staff and parents assist area scientists from the U.S. Department of Fish and Wildlife, the Georgia Department of Natural Resources, the Fort Stewart Fish and Wildlife program, Georgia Adopta-Wetland and Ogeechee Riverkeeper in conducting research and in monitoring habitats.
In March, Hodgdon received the SeaWorld Outstanding Environmental Educator award at the National Science Teachers Association conference in Chicago. “Robert Hodgdon has given his students and their families the chance to become more active members of their community, as well as the knowledge and tools needed to practice environmentalism and contribute to the field of scientific research,” said parent Marjorie Freeze. “Former academically talented students often return to be part of his outreach field study programs,” added fellow science teacher Catherine Warren. According to RHMS Principal Dr. William McGrath, “Since 2011, 92% of [Hodgdon’s] students have shown improvement on the science section of the CRCT, while 90% have exceeded the standard.” He does not teach to the test, but rather “challenges students at an advanced level,” added McGrath. Warren said that her colleague accepts the responsibility to teach the most challenging at-risk students, and he tutors children after school. Hodgdon also has secured about $4,000 in grant money for lab and field equipment. May/June 2015
