February 2, 2012 Sharon Phillips named Oklahoma Outstanding Biology Teacher 2011

Anonymous The Ada News The Ada Evening News Thu Feb 02, 2012, 07:47 AM CST

Vanoss —  

Sharon Phillips, Vanoss High School biology teacher and science supervisor, is the recipient of the 2011 Outstanding Biology Teacher for Oklahoma.

The OBTA is given each year by the National Association of Biology Teachers (NABT) to a life science teacher in each state who demonstrates exemplary practice in the teaching of life science.  Phillips has been a science teacher and coach at Vanoss since 2002 and presently teaches anatomy, zoology, and Biology II.  She began her teaching career at Cashion Public Schools in 1984 and has taught at Kellyville and Lexington Public Schools and loves science education.  Her job, she says is to create the interest that will help students learn to think critically and biological science holds the key. Whether in the lab discussing what error was made during an experiment, or discussing the hottest topic in the world, problem solving is critical.

Phillips' enthusiasm and dedication to teaching biology is demonstrated in her following quote: “I believe biological science education is of the greatest importance. Teaching students to connect concepts, compare and contrast areas, and infer on subjects discussed is critical in the life science world.”

“Discussing subjects that arise in our rural community, state or national level, or at home on the personal level can bring out the best conversations and thinking skills in my classes.”  Her essay’s concluding paragraph sums up Sharon’s upbeat teaching philosophy and work ethic, “I love teaching, and I love the life sciences.  The influence I have on my students will affect the outcome of their lives.  Whether I make a difference in one student or a hundred students, it is worth every effort I put forth in the teaching profession,  With all the negativity surrounding the teaching field, each teacher must make a conscience choice to be positive.  I believe in my profession, I believe in my students, and I believe that a positive influence can make a difference.”

While she was Vanoss Teacher of the year for 2008-2009,  Phillips does not actively seek recognition for her enthusiasm and dedication to science education.  She simply believes her role is to bring the best she can to her classroom and be there for her students.   

Phillips credits her success to the support of her colleagues and friends. “Susie Stevens Edens has been a tremendous mentor and go-to person. She has been very supportive and helpful during times I have struggled learning new concepts” said phillips.

“Much of the credit needs to be given to my former superintendent Cheryl Melton, she encouraged me to start a program in the biotechnology field and we haven’t slowed down."

See the article here:
Sharon Phillips named Oklahoma Outstanding Biology Teacher 2011