The Xi Zeta Eta chapter of Beta Sigma Phi is proud to announce Andrea Sayler-Siefkes, their nominee for the Emporia State University 2010 Kansas Master Teacher, was awarded this honor Monday, Feb. 22.
Widening the scope of culture and acceptance is what Andrea Sayler-Siefkes works to accomplish every day with her Biology, Chemistry, and Physic students.
“Providing students with contrasting ideals and modes of operation is a necessity for them to practice their own decision making process,” she said.
Andrea reaches her students through a carefully constructed, yet ever-changing curriculum that is based around one main theme: problem solving. She uses the sciences to demonstrate how to answer questions and solve problems using creativity and clarity, both of which will provide an edge in the professional world.
Andrea also utilizes her community and its members for help with real world examples that go along with her lessons. She enjoys providing her students with field trips to various destinations related to the sciences and incorporates guest speakers on the topics as well.
Students are also challenged to build off these trips and speakers by creating their own research and presenting the information. She provides the double service of teaching the school curriculum while at the same time introducing the students to subjects the school does not offer such as public speaking, forensics and debate.
Just as the community helps with her work, she too gives back to them. She is involved as a member and advocate for many local organizations, regularly attends school activities and athletics, and is active with her church as well. She has developed a personal relationship with many students who have come to consider her as much more than just a teacher. “Mrs. Siefkes actually invested time into each one of us as an individual and unique person. I always feel like she truly cared for each one of us,” a former student writes.
Andrea Sayler-Siefkes received her bachelor’s degree in 1997 from Bethel College. She is an active member of numerous professional organizations and continues to further her education through training and research.
Emporia State University established the Kansas Master Teacher awards in 1953. The awards are presented annually to teachers who have served the profession long and well and who also typify the good qualities of earnest and conscientious teachers. To be eligible for nomination, each candidate must have served at least five years in schools in Kansas as a teacher or administrator, exemplified teaching or administrative effectiveness, and demonstrated the attitude and abilities specified in the National Education Association's code of Ethics of the Educational Professional. Qualified candidates demonstrate these qualities by submitting an application documenting his or her educational philosophy, job performance, outstanding community service, continuous professional growth, exceptional school service and participation in professional organizations.
