Collegiate teacher wins national Siemens Award

Crowley beat 49 teachers from all 50 states to earn this year's national Siemens Awards for Advanced Placement.

Crowley also won the state award from the Siemens Foundation, which has honored the top-performing high school students and teachers in Advanced Placement science and math courses for 11 years.

After Chase Koch of Koch Industries spun an inspirational tale about his life and achievements, students at the assembly learned of Crowley's accomplishment.

"This is a recognition of all of us," said Gale Farmer of Collegiate. "No teacher can show the excellence that's required to achieve at this level without the support of those around them."

Students cheered, and several patted Crowley's back, offering their congratulations for an award that Crowleysaid belongs as much to them, their parents and her colleagues.

Crowley, who has spent nine years of her 24-year teaching career at Collegiate, beamed when she talked about her method.

She reflects on teachers she's had that sparked her love of science. Or she thinks of contemporary examples of scientific excellence, such as Ben Carson, author of "Gifted Hands," who grew up in poverty but rose to become one of the nation's leading physicians at Johns Hopkins Children's Center.

She also delights in her love of science.

"A.P. is for everybody," said Crowley, who earned $5,000 for the recognition.

She said her teaching secret starts with offering clear demonstrations in her lesson plans. And she also recognizes the educational value of fun.

"You can work people hard," Crowley said, "but you can also have a good time."

She doesn't contain her lesson plans to classrooms either. She coordinates the Wizards Club, which allows students to present traveling science shows in area schools. Crowley said the club helps catch kids' attention and awe for science when they're young.

Phillip Seo, a 17-year-old Collegiate student, said Crowley's teaching is one reason he's applying to colleges and universities as a chemistry major.

"I think she's a great teacher," he said. "She explains the concepts very well."

Chris Ashbrook, Collegiate's principal, said he sees his staff and Crowley's dedication every day, and that it results in award-winning teaching.

"It's going the extra mile for the kids and doing whatever it takes," Ashbrook said. "It's truly exceptional for her to be recognized."

Beyond the singular recognition, Crowley said, the award indicates a collective achievement.

"I couldn't have done it... without an amazing group of students, staff and parents," she said.

Reach Christina M. Woods at 316-269-6791 or cwoods@wichitaeagle.com.

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