Congratulations to Sue Anderson, who was recently honored by the Virginia Association of Science Teachers for her work teaching science at Carver College and Career Academy. The association annually presents RISE Awards to spotlight the excellent work by science educators across Virginia. There are several award categories; Anderson won a RISE Award for teaching at-risk students.
Anderson joined Chesterfield County Public Schools in 1999 and since 2000 has taught at Carver College and Career Academy, where she also leads the science department. One of her nominators for the award wrote this about the difference Anderson makes:
“What distinguishes Sue most is her unwavering commitment to cultivating meaningful relationships with her students. She recognizes that academic success is built upon trust and mutual respect, especially for students facing personal or school-based challenges. … Her students would best describe her as both a mentor and advocate; someone who believes in them even when they struggle to believe in themselves. … Sue is a rare educator whose impact resonates through the lives of students, colleagues and the Carver community. Her blend of expertise, compassion and leadership make her not only an outstanding teacher but a transformative science leader.”