Burlington Educator Up For National Award

BURLINGTON, MA — Wendy Pavlicek Tyburczy, director of the Burlington Science Center, is running for America's Favorite Teacher.

"I love teaching because it fosters respect, empathy and a love of nature and wildlife," Tyburczy wrote on the site. "I also make deep connections with my students."

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If she wins the contest, Tyburczy will receive a $25,000 prize, as well as a trip to Hawaii and an appearance in Reader's Digest. Currently, she is No. 2 in her group, according to the site.

Tyburczy said if she won, she would put the funds toward student scholarships, educational programming resources, and travel on a work-oriented science trip that would be used to make an educational program for students.

"I became a teacher to share my love and passion for our all things science!" she wrote. "I wanted to inspire curiosity and critical thinking about the world around us. I wanted to connect with students/make meaningful relationships, build self confidence [and] make a positive impact their lives. I could be a role model for students, help them navigate challenges and offer support when they need it."

The contest ends Thursday, April 23, at 10 p.m. EST. You can vote for Tyburczy by clicking here.