Debra Zupko honored with prestigious statewide science teaching award

Debra Zupko, a second grade teacher at Little Britain Elementary School, has been inspiring students for nearly 20 years with her passion for science education. Her dedication to teaching might well run in the family - her father was a science teacher, and her mother taught kindergarten at Little Britain for three decades. 

Now teaching in the district where she herself was once a student, Ms. Zupko fosters a classroom environment rich with hands-on exploration. Her students engage in activities such as caring for baby chicks, experimenting with hydroponics and tending to the school’s garden. 

Ms. Zupko’s innovative methods and unwavering commitment recently earned her the Anton Banko Excellence in Elementary Science Teaching Award from the Science Teachers Association of New York State (STANYS). Presented annually to only one elementary teacher statewide, this award honors educators who deliver outstanding science learning experiences. She was nominated by a parent of one of her former students. 

“I never imagined being nominated for something like this,” Ms. Zupko said. “In elementary education, we often feel we're in our own little world, but being recognized for going above and beyond for students is incredibly special.”

Earlier this month, Ms. Zupko was also recognized locally with the Washingtonville Board of Education Award for Accomplishment, presented at the May 21 board meeting.

As part of the Anton Banko Award application, Ms. Zupko detailed her instructional methods across key science disciplines, including physical science, engineering and biology. Her submission included slideshows, student work samples and photographs demonstrating her teaching approach.

At the three-day STANYS conference, Ms. Zupko was formally recognized and participated in professional workshops alongside other educators from middle school, high school and higher education. This experience sparked ideas for further enriching STEM education at Little Britain. 

The Anton Banko Award included a $1,500 grant for classroom resources, which Ms. Zupko used to purchase innovative materials, such as an AquaSpouts hydroponic garden. Beyond this award, she actively pursues additional funding through grants and DonorsChoose projects, having successfully raised over $15,000 to support her students. 

“Science sparks curiosity and joy in my students,” she shared. “Knowing the community recognizes the value in what we do keeps me inspired to continually push boundaries and innovate.”