Delphi Community High School science teacher Kirk Janowiak has been selected for the Albert Einstein Distinguished Educator Fellowship Program. He was one of 24 educators chosen across the United States to participate in the year-long program exploring education policy and science programs.

“Kirk’s dedication to his students and craft is evident in his leadership in science education,” State Superintendent of Public Instruction Dr. Tony Bennett said. “Kirk has made it a priority to create and promote a rigorous and engaging science curriculum for his students at Delphi. I congratulate him on his accomplishment, and I’m confident the fellowship will provide him new innovative ideas for Indiana students.”

Janowiak’s experience in science education is expected to be vital to the program. After earning his Bachelor of Science dgree in wildlife biology, his Master of Science degree in ecology and a Master of Science degree in biology education at Purdue University, Janowiak began teaching in central Indiana. After several decades in the classroom, his experience has earned him national recognition, such as the National Association of Biology Teachers’ Outstanding Biology Teacher Award and the Christel DeHaan Family Foundation Project e! Excellence in Education Award.

“When compared to all of the professional development activities in which I have participated in the past, the Albert Einstein Distinguished Educator Fellowship has proven to be the ultimate,” Janowiak said. “I have a front row seat in observing and interacting with education policy makers and have provided an educator’s perspective to legislators and agency officials.”

Janowiak is serving his fellowship at the U.S. Department of Energy, Office of Science, in Washington D.C. until July 2010.

All selected teachers provide real-world insight to various policy makers. The fellowship’s intent is to provide a meaningful connection between educators and key decision makers.

Established by an act of Congress in 1994, The Albert Einstein Distinguished Educator Fellowship Program is administered by the U.S. Department of Energy and coordinated by Triangle Coalition for Science and Technology Education. For more information on the Albert Einstein Distinguished Educator Fellowship Program, go to: www.trianglecoalition.org/ein.htm.