McCollum to Receive EIU Sigma Xi Award for Teaching Excellence

March 20, 2008

Charleston Middle School science teacher Tim McCollum will be honored for his teaching excellence with an award from the Eastern Illinois University chapter of Sigma Xi, The Scientific Research Society.

McCollum, an EIU graduate and Charleston native, is the second recipient of the chapter’s Excellence in High School and Middle School Science and Mathematics Teaching Award.

McCollum is to be presented with the 2008 award plaque and stipend at the 11th annual Sigma Xi EIU chapter banquet on Thursday, March 27, in the University Ballroom, MLK Jr. Union. The public is invited to attend the award presentation at 7:30 p.m.

Honorees must be high school or middle 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.

Last year's inaugural award went to Rochelle Epperson of Mattoon High School.
McCollum was recently the only K-12 classroom teacher appointed to the National Science Board Commission on 21st Century Education in Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics.

He is one of 30 finalists for the 2008 Central Illinois Golden Apple Award for Teaching. In 2003, McCollum received the Presidential Award of Excellence in Science Teaching for Illinois.

He currently serves as the lead teacher for the Polar Palooza National Museum Tour, which brings Arctic and Antarctic research scientists to public outreach programs and teacher workshops in museums and science centers across the country; a Toyota TAPESTRY Ambassador for Illinois; a member of the Advisory Committee for the EIU College of Education and Professional Studies; and the president of the EIU Alumni Association.