Schutte Receives National Biology Teaching Award

Carol Schutte received the 2006 Excellence in Community College Biology Teaching Award from McGraw-Hill and the National Association of Biology Teachers (NABT) two-year college section.

“I’ve been involved with NABT for several years, and am so impressed with the caliber of dedicated people I’ve met in the two-year section.  It is a great honor for me to be selected by these colleagues to receive the award,” Schutte said.

Schutte was selected for the Two-Year College Biology Teaching Award based upon criteria including mastery of effective and diverse teaching techniques, scholarship and professional growth, student service and accessibility as well as academic standards and student performance.  Curriculum design and laboratory utilization are also important.  “We’re proud of Carol’s achievements and this deserved recognition.  Carol is a dedicated professional who cares deeply about students and her profession,” Dr. Michael Morrison (retired 2008), NIACC president, said.

Schutte considers NIACC staff fortunate to have administrative support for continuing education, such as attendance at meetings and conferences and sabbatical opportunities.  Schutte finds professional meetings and workshops a great way to upgrade her biology foundation and teaching skills.

One of Schutte’s special teaching techniques includes exposing students to natural environments.  “From the short excursions to our local pond to the two-week tropical ecology trips, the students seem to gain immensely from these out-of-classroom immersion experiences and they appreciate the benefits and effort as much as I appreciate the privilege of sharing new experiences with them,” Schutte said.

Schutte received her award at the 2006 NABT meetings in Albuquerque, New Mexico on October 13th.  Her son, Daniel, NIACC 2001, recently returned from the Peace Corps in Paraguay and was able to be with her for the ceremony.