Science Department Chair & Faculty Stacey Strandberg was recently recognized by the Wisconsin Society of Science Teachers (WSST) for her outstanding work with Science Education in Wisconsin. WSST recognizes teachers of science annually for their achievements. The Excellence in Science Teaching Award is given annually to persons who have made outstanding contributions to the improvement of science education in Wisconsin. This would include elementary, secondary, or college teachers, and any other active supporters of science education.

Strandberg has been teaching Biology including AP Biology at Divine Savior Holy Angels High School for the past 17 years. She serves as the SMART Team mentor and the marine science trip coordinator. She also serves as the science department chair at DSHA. Other activities that Strandberg has shown leadership in include her long-standing membership, work, and leadership within WSST including District 7 CESA 1 Director, PD and equity committee member, conference vendor coordinator, and conference planning committee member. She is a model teacher for 3DMD. She was awarded the Outstanding Biology Teacher of WI in 2018. She is also a member of the National Association of Biology Teachers and has served as a reader for the College Board for AP Biology since 2013. She published in the journal American Biology Teacher in 2022 and was part of the Introduction to Biology Task Force and the Praxis Biology National Advisory Committee. She also worked with the Howard Hughes Medical Institute as a field tester for bio-interactive resources. She continually strives to improve learning for her students, and students across Wisconsin.

DSHA Academic Dean Dr. Heather Mansfield, calls her “the epitome of a lifelong learner and sets this great example not only for her students but for her department colleagues as well. John Dobyns, a professor at UW-Oshkosh, notes that “her ability to connect subject matter to students’ curricular journeys, and, more importantly, to their lives, is wonderfully delivered and designed…she is a constant tinkerer of ALL areas of her classroom experience speak volumes to me about her focus, heart, and passion for proper science education! In addition, colleague, Science Faculty Eric Himburg writes that “Stacey’s commitment to keeping current on biology research and her willingness to innovate in the classroom keeps science learning interesting and relevant not only for the students but also for the teachers.”