A science teacher at Lafayette Middle School recently won one of the most prominent teaching awards in the country.

Kelle Sumrall was honored with the Robert E. Yager Excellence in Teaching Award from the National Science Teachers Association for “excellence and innovation in the field of science”.

The award is named after a renowned professor in science education at The University of Iowa. For a time, Yager also headed the NSTA.

“I was so excited and honored to be chosen for such a prestigious award,” Sumrall said. “Dr. Robert E Yager is a leader in the field of science education and to have my name associated with his is such a tremendous honor.”

Sumrall describes her teaching style as “inquiry based and student centered.”  She has taught K-12 grades for five years. While working on her doctorate at Ole Miss, she says that she also taught numerous classes there as well.

“I feel it is important to try to teach to every learning style,” she added. “I have been very blessed with so many wonderful opportunities at Ole Miss and in the Lafayette County School District. I am very thankful from the support and encouragement from my husband, family and friends. Teaching has always been my passion and feel very fortunate to be able to do what I love to do.”