Mr. Ben Cooper, VL science teacher, has been recognized as a 2021 STEM Star! This is the second year MiStem East Central Michigan and STEM at SVSU have recognized educators for their efforts.

Nominations were reviewed by a selection committee. The teachers represent schools in Arenac, Bay, Clare, Gladwin, Gratiot, Isabella, Midland and Saginaw counties.

“The variety of nominees stood out this year,” said Adrianne Cole, director of STEM@SVSU. “At all levels, educators are going above and beyond to deliver exceptional STEM experiences to their students, and they’ve been doing it throughout a pandemic.”

Mr. Cooper was specifically noted for “…constantly working to improve his own professional learning…All that he learns is brought back to school and shared with colleagues and students. He then designs opportunities for students to get actively involved in projects of their own.” His leadership of the new ValleyBio Club was also recognized.