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The University of North Texas Health Science Center at Fort Worth is committed to supporting science and health education for students at all levels of their academic journeys. 

Since last year, HSC has sponsored Fort Worth Independent School District’s Chair for Teaching Excellence in Secondary Science award. The honor is given annually to an outstanding science teacher in the school district. 

“Through this partnership with Fort Worth ISD, we’re helping teachers build strong foundations for their students’ future academic and professional success,” said Dr. Michael Mathis, dean of the School of Biomedical Sciences. 

This year’s Chair for Teaching Excellence in Secondary Science was awarded to Saskia Borjas at Benbrook Middle-High School. Borjas was surprised with the award at a recent pep rally. With the award comes a $5,000 honorarium and a recognition luncheon attended by sponsors and FWISD leadership. 

Dr. Mathis and Annabel Luna-Smith, community liaison at HSC, helped select this year’s winner with a team that included Mashaal Atif, environmental planner at the City of Fort Worth, Deborah Branch, district superintendent at the City of Fort Worth and Marcia Hensley, talent and learning partner at Fidelity Investments. The selection process included reviews of written applications, video recordings of actual in-classroom lessons and virtual interviews of candidates.  

“We are thrilled to present this award to Ms. Borjas,” Mathis said. “It is easy to see her dedication to her students and her commitment to her role as a science educator. The next generations of scientists and health care professionals are in good hands” 

HSC faculty, health experts, students and volunteers work with the school district in several areas, including supporting health fairs and physical wellness programs. HSC also provides health services and vaccines to Fort Worth ISD students through its Pediatric Mobile Clinic.  

Learn more 

• HSC is one of several community partners and local businesses to support the Academic Chair for Teaching Excellence Program. Learn more about the Academic Chair for Teaching Excellence Program and see a list of this year’s winners and sponsors at the Fort Worth I.S.D. website.  
• Watch a video of the Secondary Science award announcement. 

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