Des Moines, IA — Drake University is proud to announce that Dr. Jerrid Kruse, a leading science educator, has been honored with the Innovation in Teaching Science Teachers Award from the Association for Science Teacher Education (ASTE). Additionally, Kruse has secured a three-year grant renewal from the William G. Stowe Foundation to support water quality education initiatives.
Recognition for Excellence in Science Teacher Education
Dr. Kruse was recognized by ASTE for his groundbreaking work on integrating university science courses into preservice teacher internships, a model that provides future educators with hands-on teaching experiences in a highly supported learning environment. His paper, “Using University Science Courses for Preservice Teacher Internship Experiences,” published in Innovations in Science Teacher Education and explores this unique approach.
“This is the group I’m most involved in—from conferences, to serving on boards, to professional feedback. It feels nice to be recognized by the people I respect the most, and that they found the work I’m doing to be worthy of reward,” said Kruse.
Since 2012, Kruse has cultivated an internship model where preservice teachers gain real classroom teaching experience under expert guidance. This approach not only bridges the gap between theory and practice but also fosters a collaborative learning environment among interns. His work highlights the importance of high support and structured reflection, ensuring that future educators are prepared to implement inquiry-based, student-centered instruction.
Advancing Water Quality Education Through Stowe Foundation Grant
In addition to this prestigious award, Kruse has successfully secured a three-year grant renewal from the William G. Stowe Foundation, reinforcing Drake’s commitment to environmental science education. This funding supports curriculum development focused on water filtration, farm runoff, and socioscientific literacy at the middle grade levels in science education.
“The Stowe Foundation’s support allows us to develop meaningful science education experiences that connect students with real-world water quality issues. Our goal is to help students think critically about the socioscientific challenges their communities face,” said Kruse.
Kruse’s ongoing projects include:
- Fifth-grade curriculum on using natural materials for water filtration (to be published in Children & Science Journal in March 2025).
- Middle school science unit addressing farm runoff and the water cycle, incorporating socioscientific literacy to help students analyze environmental data.
- High school chemistry and physics modules exploring water quality and filtration technology.
Impact on Science Education
Kruse’s contributions to both science teacher education and environmental science curriculum development are shaping the future of STEM education. His work ensures that preservice teachers receive authentic classroom experiences, while K-12 students engage with socioscientific issues that impact their communities.
With recognition from ASTE and continued support from the Stowe Foundation, Kruse remains at the forefront of innovative science education, equipping future educators and students with the skills to navigate and address complex scientific challenges. Drake University’s School of Education is thrilled to have Kruse as an educator.