Bayshore Elementary teacher Yelitza Cienfuegos and La Porte Junior High teacher Alyssa Ruffin have been named regional winners in the Shell Science Lab Regional Challenge.

Sponsored by Shell USA and administered by the National Science Teaching Association, the competition encouraged K–12 science teachers who have found innovative ways to deliver quality lab experiences with limited school and laboratory resources to share their approaches for a chance to win a school science lab makeover support package.

Cienfuegos and Ruffin, both former La Porte ISD Rookie Teachers of the Year, are among 24 regional winners, from which three grand-prize winners will be selected. The regional winners each received a school science lab makeover support package valued at $15,000 (for the elementary level) and $20,000 (for the middle and high school levels).

Ruffin tries to ignite curiosity, foster inquiry, and cultivate scientific minds in her students. She believes that science education is not merely about memorizing facts and formulas but about instilling a passion for discovery and a love of learning.

The core of Cienfuegos’ teaching philosophy is based on developing students as growing learners. She prioritizes creating an environment that is welcoming to all children and promotes an atmosphere that allows them to reach their full potential. She establishes high expectations and individual goals throughout the year. One of her crucial beliefs is having hands-on experiments in her classroom.

“These science teachers have implemented remarkable science programs, providing high-quality lab experiences for their students with very little resources, often using their own funds,” said Erika Shugart, Ph.D., Chief Executive Officer at NSTA. “Now they have the chance to build the lab of their dreams. We commend all the regional winners for their creativity, resourcefulness, and commitment to their students.”

Cienfuegos and Ruffin now advance to the national phase of the competition, where they will have a chance to win an additional $5,000 of support to attend a future NSTA National Conference.