Teaching Excellence Award

Rochelle S. Epperson, Mattoon High School biology teacher, has been honored for her teaching excellence with a new award from the Eastern Illinois University chapter of Sigma Xi. Epperson is the first recipient of the scientific research honor society chapter’s Excellence in High School Science and Mathematics Teaching Award.

Honorees must be high school science or mathematics teachers who demonstrate excellence in teaching, actively involve students in critical thinking and problem-solving, actively involve students in the learning process, and teach an appreciation for science and mathematics.
Epperson was presented with the 2007 award plaque and stipend at the annual Sigma Xi EIU chapter banquet and lecture held at EIU.
Epperson earned her Bachelor of Science degree from EIU in 1976 and has completed graduate coursework in the natural sciences. She has taught at MHS since 1986.

Epperson’s excellence in teaching has also been recognized by a variety of other institutions and organizations. Her past awards include Wal-Mart Teacher of the Year, 1998; Who’s Who in American Teachers, multiple years; Community Unit District #2 Recognition for Dedication to Teaching award, two years; and Excellence in Teaching awards from Eastern Illinois, 1990-97.

In addition, she has received a $2,000 grant from the Great Lakes Regional Genetic Association; been nominated twice for the Presidential Award for Excellence in Science Teaching; been nominated to participate in the Educational Psychology and Guidance panel discussions at EIU; served as a team leader for the Big 12 Conference Leadership Convention in 2000; and been named an American Physiological Society Educational Fellow (2003-2004).