Local educator honored as teacher of the year

LAFAYETTE, Ind. (WLFI) - The top science educator in the country has been named and he can be found right in Lafayette.

Joe Ruhl, a biology teacher at Lafayette Jeff, has been recognized by the National Science Teaching Association.

The Shell National Science Teaching Award recognizes outstanding teaching and a positive impact on students.

Ruhl was nominated in August.

Two weeks ago, a committee of judges came to Lafayette to watch Ruhl's teaching techniques in the classroom.

Ruhl said he is honored and humbled by the award.

“The best part of this whole thing has been how excited the students have gotten about this. I mean, that's just warmed my heart beyond words,” said Ruhl.

In addition to the title of the top science educator in the country, Ruhl also was awarded with $10,000 and an all expenses paid trip to the National Science Teacher Convention.