DFSME’s June “Shining Light Award” Honors Peter Kelly, Science Educator

Peter Kelly is a middle school science teacher at Brandywine Springs School in the Red Clay School District. He is the light that shines on everyone else to make stronger educators, solution-focused collaborators and more empowered students. His energy is apparent to all the students who have learned both inside and outside of his classroom, and educators who have been part of his professional development opportunities related to STEM and Science.

Peter motivates our youth to learn more and grow through their achievements. He is a trailblazer who has historically been involved with improving Delaware environmental education in the face of ever-changing standards and challenges. He has produced high-quality projects such as his plant growth data tracking website, led by students.

Peter teaches and mentors science educators in Red Clay School district as well. Parents of students consistently compliment him about his effectiveness. He is never about shining a light on himself – he is always helping others find their own sparkle.

Among exemplary highlights, Peter has won the 2024 Delaware Association for Environmental Education Healthy Innovation Award for Excellence and numerous recognitions for his plant science data collection. He is part of Red Clay’s Delaware Science Olympiad board of organizers. He is the District Science Chair who helps to plan and facilitate district-wide professional developments. He is also on the Delaware Teachers of Science Leadership Committee.

We are pleased to recognize Peter Kelly as a Superlative Educator!

Peter was nominated by Erin Ahern, Red Clay School District.