LTHS Teacher Earns National Award From Project Lead The Way

LOCKPORT, IL — Lockport Township High School teacher Corey Duzan has earned the 2022-23 National Project Lead The Way Engineering Teacher of the Year award, according to a release from the district.

The award recognizes educators who demonstrate a strong record of delivering an inspiring and empowering student experience, expanding access to PLTW programs and transforming teaching. Duzan was chosen from nominations received from across the U.S., the district said.

PLTW is honoring Duzan for his work in the PLTW Engineering program. Duzan has been a teacher at LTHS since 2017 and teaches PLTW-Introduction to Engineering Design, STEM Exploration, Digital Pathways courses for ninth grade students at LTHS Central campus, according to the district.

“When I consider what the National PLTW Teacher of the Year award recognizes, I believe that Mr. Duzan is the educator I have worked with in my 33-year career who embodies it the most. I speak from a unique perspective. I have worked with Mr. Duzan in two school districts and served as his mentor when he pursued a degree in educational leadership," Superintendent Rober McBride said in a release. "He is committed, creative, inspiring and humble. I have watched his work with students for 15 years at two schools."

“I am honored to receive this award but am humbled due to the amazing students and educators that make up this impressive network. PLTW is truly made up of some of the best educators and learners on the planet," Duzan said. "I would highly recommend seeing these programs and classrooms in action if you have never seen them before. The work that we do in the classroom and in professional development is a benchmark to so many due to the overwhelming
support and care that teachers and students put towards helping others."

He added that he was proud to represent his students, Lockport Township High School, College and Career Applications Department, community, and PLTW.

"This is definitely a highlight of my career. I could have never gotten to this moment in my career without the support of my wife, parents, family, teachers, mentors, friends and students," Duzan said.

"PLTW educators do incredible work facilitating learning experiences that help inspire and prepare students to reach their full potential. This award acknowledges and recognizes their accomplishments in continuing that mission," Dr. David Dimmett, PLTW Interim President and CEO, said in a release. “We congratulate them and are proud of the work these educational leaders do to equip students with the knowledge and skills necessary for success beyond the classroom, no matter what career path they choose."