PSRC Indian Education Director Dr. Connie Locklear leaves and PSRC Science Supervisor Mrs. Susan Miller Hendricks receives recognition at the North Carolina Science, Mathematics, and Technology Education Center (SMT Center) Science, Mathematics, and Technology Gala I did. Carey Technology Education. Photo provided by: PSRC
Cary — The Robeson County Public Schools Indian education director and science supervisor both spoke at the North Carolina Science, Mathematics, and Technology Education Center (SMT Center) Science, Mathematics, and Technology Education Celebration held in Cary this past weekend. , was recognized for its leadership.
Dr. Connie Locklear, PSRC Indian Education Director, and Mrs. Susan Miller Hendricks, PSRC Science Supervisor, were honored at the gala.
“Each year, the SMT Center offers awards that recognize individuals and organizations who have made significant contributions to science, mathematics, and technology (SMT) education in North Carolina and who have helped advance the mission of the SMT Center. Nominations are accepted each year. Winners will be recognized at the Spring Science, Mathematics and Technology Festival, according to the SMT website, which accepts applications in the fall.
Dr. Locklear received the Informal Educator Award in Science, Mathematics, and Technology Education.
This award recognizes North Carolina informal educators (those who work outside of the traditional classroom) who excel in engaging youth (prek-12) in science, math, and technology (SMT) activities and experiences. Thing.
“I was honored and humbled to receive the Science, Mathematics, and Technology Education Informal Educator Award. As the PSRC Indian Education Director, I do a lot of networking to bring STEM opportunities to students here in Robeson County. of time,” Dr. Locklear said.
Locklear also said she is grateful for the support of the Indian Education Program staff, her church family, and friends and family.
“Indigenous peoples have been involved in STEM since before the acronym was invented. Our employees design their own homes, develop their own medicines, and use the sky as their navigation system. , is still an innovator in STEM. PSRC Indian Education offers cultural academies and summer camps that integrate cultural competency and STEM,” she added. “As a young girl growing up with limited resources, I never thought I would have the opportunities that God, our Creator, has given me. I want to pave the way.”
Miller-Hendrix received the Outstanding Leadership Award in Science, Mathematics, and Technology Education. This award recognizes North Carolina education leaders who excel in fulfilling the mission of the North Carolina Center for Science, Mathematics, and Technology Education.
Miller-Hendricks expressed his gratitude for receiving this award.
“I am so honored to receive this award. Science and STEM are my passions, and igniting that spark in teachers and students makes every day worthwhile,” she said. I did.
“They may not remember who I am, but they will remember what we did. It's not about me, it's never been about me, it's about others. It's about helping them visualize their future and knowing they're ready for what's to come, always coming to the rescue when they need to prepare supplies for a STEM lesson or STEM night. I would like to thank my family for their constant support,” she added.
PSRC Superintendent Dr. Freddie Williamson congratulated Locklear and Miller-Hendricks on their awards.
“I would like to congratulate Dr. Connie and Mrs. Susan on this wonderful recognition from the SMT Center. It is an honor to be recognized by this organization and we are proud of the work of these educators. ,” Dr. Williamson said.