Centenary University Students Awarded 'Christopher John Stupak Scholarship' for the Next Generation of Elementary School Science Teachers - Three $5000 Scholarships awarded May 19, 2023!!!

Recipients of the MES CJS Scholarship for the Next Generation of Elementary School Teachers, (left to right), Christina Bubniak (Watchung), Sarah Sconda (Bridgewater), and Isabel Dutta (Hillsborough).

Main Engine Start, a New Jersey-based nonprofit dedicated to igniting student interest and aptitude in science and engineering, has awarded the inaugural “Christopher John Stupak Scholarship for the Next Generation of Elementary School Science Teachers” to three promising Centenary University senior Elementary Education majors. Christina Bubniak (Watchung), Sarah Sconda (Bridgewater), and Isabel Dutta (Hillsborough) were each honored with a $5000 scholarship to support their upcoming full-time, unpaid student-teaching experiences during the 2023-2024 academic year.  All three students are also graduates of the Raritan Valley Community College Elementary Education program.

This scholarship, named in honor of outstanding 5th and 6th-grade teacher Christopher John Stupak, targets passionate student-teachers who are dedicated to making science accessible, exciting, and fear-free in the classroom.

"These exceptional young educators embody the mission of Main Engine Start and the spirit of Christopher Stupak," said Peter Stupak, founder and president of the nonprofit and brother of the late Christopher. "They have demonstrated not only an understanding of science but also a commitment to dispelling the fear that often surrounds it. They are dedicated to fostering an environment where curiosity and inquiry are encouraged, and science becomes a journey of discovery rather than a subject of intimidation."

Jolene Battitori, who oversees the Elementary Education Program at Centenary University, expressed her pride and confidence in the scholarship recipients, “Exhibiting remarkable commitment within the Elementary Education Program, these students are ready to excel in their forthcoming full-time student teaching endeavors”, said Battitori. "I am confident they will continue to positively influence their future students and foster a love of science that will last a lifetime."

Christina Bubniak is scheduled to embark on her student-teaching journey in the Fall of 2023, while Sarah Sconda and Isabel Dutta will engage in part-time student-teaching in the Fall and conduct their full-time student-teaching in Spring 2024. All three scholarship recipients are recognized for their academic performance, innovative approach to hands-on science teaching, and commitment to helping young students develop a love for science early in their educational journey.

"As we award these scholarships, we also celebrate the start of these future educators' journey towards influencing the next generation of scientists and engineers," Stupak continued. "They have already shown aptitude in their field, and we look forward to seeing how their approach will inspire a new wave of students to embrace science without fear."

For more information about Main Engine Start and the Christopher John Stupak Scholarship, visit www.mainenginestart.org.

About Main Engine Start: Founded by Peter Stupak, Main Engine Start is a New Jersey-based nonprofit dedicated to helping students of all ages find their aptitude and passion for science and engineering through hands-on projects. The organization also provides financial support to aspiring educators through the Christopher John Stupak Scholarship, ensuring more science-capable teachers can take their place in the classroom to inspire future generations.