Heritage Elementary science teacher Pamela Swain and Lomax Junior High science teacher Kirsti Fontenot have been named regional winners in the Shell Science Lab Regional Challenge, and have been awarded $7,500 and $40,000 grants, respectively.

The awards will provide new materials and equipment that will enhance laboratory investigations, STEM activities, and inquiry-driven learning experiences for Heritage Elementary and Lomax Junior High students. These resources will allow students to engage more deeply in scientific exploration while developing the problem-solving, collaboration, and critical-thinking skills that are essential for future success.

This is the second consecutive award for Fontenot, who received $20,000 in 2025.

Sponsored by Shell USA and administered by the National Science Teaching Association, the Challenge recognizes outstanding science educators who demonstrate creativity, innovation and a commitment to providing exceptional science experiences for students.

Swain believes students learn science best by actively engaging in the work of scientists. Through inquiry-based learning, she encourages students to ask questions, investigate real-world problems, analyze evidence, and communicate discoveries while building curiosity, critical thinking, and excitement for understanding the world around them.

Fontenot is passionate about making science real-world, relevant, and hands-on for our students. She works hard to give our Lobos opportunities to explore, question, create, and see how science connects to the world around them.

Swain and Fontenot 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.