W.H.S. science teacher honored for dedication

Kathy Konyar, biology teacher at Wheeling High School, is one of only two recipients of the 2011 iCON Knowledge Builder Award (grades six-12), presented by the Illinois Biotechnology Industry Organization’s iBIO Institute. Konyar was honored at the awards dinner on Oct. 6 at the Field Museum in Chicago.

The award is considered by many to be the region’s most prestigious honor for life sciences educators and researchers. The iCON Award celebrates the accomplishments of outstanding science teachers and researchers whose work provides the basis for biotechnology developments all over the world.

Konyar is dedicated to the creation and incorporation of new biotechnology curriculum to meet the needs of today’s students. By creating real-world problem-solving activities for her students and embracing new interactive technologies in the classroom, Konyar piques student interest by connecting work in the classroom to work in the field of science.

In addition to inspiring students in her own classroom, Konyar is a leader in the science department at W.H.S. and has been instrumental in teaching her colleagues new teaching strategy and technology implementation during the school year and in the summer.

“Kathy Konyar is truly a leader in STEM (Science-Technology-Engineering-Mathematics) education with a unique ability to inspire student achievement through authentic lab experiences,” said iBIO Institute Chairwoman Dr. Nancy Joseph-Ridge, general manager of Takeda’s Pharmaceutical Development Division.

Konyar has been a dedicated educator for 24 years, encouraging many students to pursue advanced education and careers in science. She is also a tireless advocate, constantly pursuing new ways to bring technology into the classroom and empower students with the 21st Century skills.