By SUSAN BERG

Managing editor

Most people don’t expect recognition for a job well done, but it sure is nice when it happens.

That’s the way Marion High School math and science teacher Gary Stuchlik feels.

He has been accepted as a nominee for a Presidential Award for Excellence in Math and Science Teaching — the highest award a math or science teacher in kindergarten through 12th grade may receive.

Although he wasn’t chosen as a state preliminary for the award at a conference June 7 in Hutchinson, being considered for one of the national awards presented annually on behalf of the White House Office of Science and Technology Policy is an honor in itself.

“Gary is an exceptional teacher,” said Brenda Odgers, who has served as his principal at Marion High School. “He works great with students of any ability. He judges what students know, how fast they can progress, and the best strategies to use to keep them engaged. USD 408 is very lucky to have him.”

Not one to draw attention to himself, Stuchlik finds the most satisfaction in helping students achieve their goals.

Graduates have contacted him and thanked him for preparing them for college.

He also appreciates support from his family.

“It’s an honor to be nominated,” Stuchlik said, “but it is nice to bring attention to the teaching profession. Sometimes academics are overlooked.”

Stuchlik said he was pleased that education had remained at the forefront of district priorities despite budget cuts.

Born and raised in Marion County, he has been a math and science teacher for 18 years — 15 of them at MHS and three at Valley Center.

Applying for the award was no easy feat. He had to videotape a lesson and discuss how and why he teaches the way he does.

“It helped me to reflect more on my teaching,” he said.

Teachers — particularly middle and high school teachers — now compete with distractions. Cell phones and video games require teachers to become more creative in how they teach students.

“I’ve changed my style of teaching,” he said.

Instead of standing in front of the class and lecturing, he makes his lectures more interactive to keep students engaged and connected.

Established by Congress in 1983, the award is administered by the National Science Foundation.

In addition to honoring individual achievement, it seeks honor those who exemplify the highest standards of mathematics and science teaching. Awardees serve as models for colleagues and inspiration to their communities.

Among the eligibility requirements, nominees must hold at least a bachelor’s degree; be a full-time employee of their school district; have at least five years of full-time, kindergarten through 12th-grade mathematics or science teaching experience in the year before applying; and cannot be a previous recipient of the award. The winner of the state award competes nationally.