National Science Teaching Association Bestows Maitland P. Simmons Award for New Teachers to Morgan Doctoral Student

NSTA Recognizes Olisa Menakaya, A Chemistry Teacher in Silver Spring, MD, Currently Pursuing a Doctorate in Science Education, For Extraordinary Contributions to the Field of Science Education

The National Science Teaching Association (NSTA) has bestowed its 2024 Maitland P. Simmons Memorial Award for New Teachers to Morgan State University graduate student Olisa Menakaya. The annual award honors NSTA members who have made extraordinary contributions to the field of science teaching in their first five years of professional instruction. Menakaya currently serves as a chemistry teacher at Springbrook High School in Silver Springs, Maryland, and is pursuing a doctoral degree in science education at Morgan’s School of Education and Urban Studies.

Menakaya is also actively engaged as a trainee in the National Science Foundation's Research Traineeship program, where Morgan associate professor Samendra Sherchan, Ph.D., serves as his mentor. In his role within the traineeship program, Menakaya is exploring the integration of environmental practices and artificial intelligence into science education. Managing roles as an educator, scholar, and innovator, his goal is to contribute to the significant advancements in science education, something his doctoral advisor, Shondricka Burrell, Ph.D., would be proud of. In addition to serving as his doctoral advisor, Dr. Burrell also mentors Menakaya on a science education project that utilizes platforms such as Kahoot! to enhance student engagement and learning outcomes. He has also successfully raised funds, leveraging platforms like DonorsChoose to secure resources and support for his educational initiatives.

“The Maitland P. Simmons Award has a special significance. I was on the NSTA Board when this award was conceptualized, and my own work is focused on ensuring the newly hired teachers thrive in their early years in the field,” said NSTA President Julie Luft. In reviewing the accomplishments of these awardees, Luft said she “sees teachers who are challenging our views of what new teachers can do in the classroom. This year’s awardees are focused on building their capacity as science teachers to ensure that all of their students are knowledgeable citizens or well-started scientists. As teachers, they are curating our future by meeting the unique learning needs of every student.”

NSTA is a vibrant community of 40,000 science educators and professionals committed to best practices in teaching science and its impact on student learning. The organization offers high-quality science resources and continuous learning so that science educators grow professionally and excel in their careers. For new and experienced teachers alike, the NSTA community provides an opportunity to network with like-minded peers nationally, connect with mentors and leading researchers, and learn from the best in the field.

Menakaya received up to $1,000 to be used to attend the NSTA National Conference on Science Education held in March in Denver, Colorado. As an attendee, he was able to participate in a variety of workshops and presentations geared toward new teachers.

When asked to reflect on the significance of what winning the award meant, Menakaya responded, “Focus on your goals and dreams. There’s more to gain when you connect the wins.”