SFA’s JacksTeach program names second science teacher fellow

NACOGDOCHES, Texas –– Following the successful launch of its educator support initiative last year, Stephen F. Austin State University’s JacksTeach program has named alumna Amy Calhoun, chemistry teacher at Sabine High School in Gladewater, as the recipient of the second annual JacksTeach Science Teacher Fellowship.

The fellowship, which recognizes exceptional public school science teachers, is designed to support continued professional growth, foster regional collaboration and enhance STEM education. As part of the fellowship, Calhoun will receive a $5,000 stipend and gain hands-on experience in lab instruction and curriculum development. She will work alongside Mindy Wurtz, clinical instructor and JacksTeach master science teacher, to design and deliver high-impact professional development workshops for educators.

Calhoun, who earned her bachelor’s and master’s degrees in chemistry from SFA in 2000 and 2009, respectively, views the opportunity as a meaningful homecoming.

“At SFA, I studied chemistry and learned effective science teaching skills from outstanding educators,” Calhoun said. “I am deeply honored to return to my alma mater and work with the JacksTeach program to develop and present engaging ways for students to experience chemistry. I am grateful for the investment SFA’s Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry made in me, and I am excited for the opportunity to give back through my work with current and future educators.”

Wurtz said she is looking forward to working with Calhoun.

“We are thrilled to welcome Amy back to SFA as our second fellow,” she said. “Her deep understanding of chemistry and her dedication to student engagement will be incredibly valuable as we collaborate to build new, inquiry-based resources for regional science teachers this summer.”

JacksTeach professional development workshops focus on hands-on, inquiry-based science activities in high school chemistry and biology classrooms. They also include a workshop on safe, ethical and effective lab practices for middle and high school teachers. Educators interested in participating can register at sfasu.edu/pace or contact jacksteach@sfasu.edu. 

The JacksTeach Science Teacher Fellowship is currently funded through the support of SFA’s College of Sciences and Mathematics.