MAST Award

Press Release

Superintendent Maureen Cohen and the Mendon-Upton Regional School District proudly share that Nipmuc Regional High School instructor Bonnie Nieves has been named Worcester County Science Educator of the Year by the Massachusetts Association of Science Teachers (MAST).

Nieves was honored by MAST for her leadership in promoting and advancing quality science education among their peers and students. Nieves was recognized at the annual MAST Conference on Nov. 8 in Marlborough. Honorees are selected for their work advancing quality science education among students in their schools.  

Nieves also was recognized by the Mendon-Upton Regional School Committee on Dec. 18. Video Link

Nieves has been a science educator since 2013, and joined the Nipmuc staff in August 2020.  

Nieves is a strong supporter of experiential learning, allowing students to learn and grow through experimentation, observation, and collaboration.  As an instructor, her commitment to empowering self-driven students and making classrooms more engaging and equitable has created environments where students can thrive.  

When Nieves isn’t teaching she also was an author of the book, Be Awesome on Purpose, and she provides ongoing professional development to colleagues near and far.  She also has written numerous papers and articles about trends in science education. She has made significant contributions in organizations like the International Society for Technology in Education (I.S.T.E.), EdReports and the Massachsuetts Computer Using Educators, where she served on the Board of Directors.