MEMPHIS, Tenn. — The Tennessee Science Teachers Association (TSTA) has announced Betsy Pillow from Campus School is this year’s Elementary Educator of the Year. With 12 years of experience as an educator, Pillow has spent the last decade with Campus School and currently leads as the school’s STEM/Project-Based Learning (PBL) coordinator.
“It is important to me for everyone to be a part of the learning process,” said Pillow. “I want kids to see the reason behind why they are learning and be able to see themselves in their community members. It is a magical experience seeing learning come to life through their eyes and experiences.”
Throughout her career, Pillow says her favorite subject to teach is Life Science, specifically human impact on the environment. One of her favorite lessons that Pillow co-wrote with fellow educators teaches fourth graders about endangered species by writing and filming a podcast urging the community to save animals.
“It’s special for students to take ownership in their learning and see how powerful their words are,” said Pillow. “They are world changers.”
“We are fortunate to have educators in our schools who bring learning to life for our students,” said Sally Parish, vice provost and director of schools for University Schools. “Mrs. Pillow is a tremendous example of the impact that innovative and engaging instruction can have on a child’s education. We are proud to celebrate her as this year’s TSTA Elementary Educator of the Year.”
Pillow is a hopeful three-time graduate of the University of Memphis, already having received a Bachelor of Science in Education (’14) and a Master of Science in Instruction and Curriculum Leadership (’21) and currently working toward a doctorate in urban affairs.
“It’s special for students to take ownership in their learning and see how powerful their words are.”
– Betsy Pillow
“My most important goal is to set a positive example to my daughter, niece and nephew for what commitment to education, resilience and determination looks like,” Pillow said. “Thank you to University Schools for providing me the opportunities to grow in leadership as an educator. I hope to continue to improve my skills as an educator and as an advocate.”
Established in 1975, TSTA is Tennessee’s largest organization for science educators, serving as a forum for sharing ideas, activities and programs that promote STEM education. They awarded Pillow the Educator of the Year Award at their 50th anniversary celebration this year. The award honors outstanding science educators across K–12 and higher education.
