Mrs. Stuckey, a dedicated physics teacher at Westside, has been inspiring students for 35 years, all within the field of science, including chemistry and natural science. For the past 21 years, she has been a valued member of the Westside community, currently teaching both regular physics and AP Physics 2.
When asked what she loves most about physics, Mrs. Stuckey shared, “I love it all, everything has its special place in the universe.”
Recently, she was recognized for her outstanding contributions to education by receiving the prestigious PhysTEC Teacher of the Year Award. This award celebrates exceptional high school physics teachers who make a significant impact on physics education at both local and national levels. Recipients are honored with certificates, recognition from their schools and districts, reduced conference registration, and opportunities to connect with the broader physics education community. National winners also receive travel funding, a speaking opportunity at an AAPT meeting, and a $1,000 classroom materials grant.
Reflecting on this achievement, Mrs. Stuckey said, “I’m honored that all my years are getting recognized and came to me to get this award.”
Outside the classroom, Mrs. Stuckey has a passion for scuba diving, which she has enjoyed for the past 9 years. Her adventures have taken her to locations such as Australia, the Caribbean, and the Florida Keys, with plans to explore the Red Sea this summer. Her love for swimming and boating, along with her husband’s prior experience in scuba diving, inspired her to take up the activity.
Mrs. Stuckey has also participated in the NASA Nebraska Education Association program, a competitive initiative that selects 10 teachers statewide. Through this opportunity, she trained at the Air and Space Museum and traveled multiple times to Texas and Florida to engage in hands-on demonstrations and educational training. She later shared her experiences and knowledge with fellow educators.
Colleague Mrs. Jernigan praised her dedication, stating, “She wants everything to be good for everybody. She pays attention to everything, listens to everyone, and listens when people have problems or ideas.”
Mrs. Stuckey’s passion for science, commitment to her students, and continued pursuit of learning make her a truly outstanding educator and a deserving recipient of this honor.
