Benjamin Spicer, a Senior School science and robotics teacher at Sewickley Academy, has been selected as a Local PhysTEC Teacher of the Year. During his 15 years at Sewickley Academy, Spicer has been a key contributor to the science and robotics programming.

In an announcement to the Academy, Michael Wittmann, PhysTEC Project Director, said, “Benjamin’s contributions to physics education are significant and impactful on the students, colleagues, school district, and state at a time when the nation is in desperate need of qualified physics teachers. Benjamin’s contributions are highly valued and respected.”

Spicer is Sewickley Academy’s Science Department Chair. Regarding the honor, he said, “It’s very humbling and somewhat embarrassing as I always want the focus to be on my students and all that they are accomplishing every day.

“I teach as if my students are future physics teachers. I am dedicated to giving them a memorable and inspiring first experience. It’s so rewarding to see their skills and conceptual development grow in a meaningful way that truly changes how they view the world.”

“Ben has a remarkable rapport with both his students and his colleagues at the Academy,” said Head of School Dr. Ashley Birtwell. “He continuously pushes the envelope to make sure we are at the cutting edge of technology education. While we’re not surprised that Ben was selected, we are all so proud of him for receiving this honor.”

Throughout his career with Sewickley Academy, Spicer has developed numerous science and mathematics courses to meet student interest and fulfill curriculum needs, such as Geoscience, Ocean & Atmospheric Sciences, Astronomy & Astrophysics, and Advanced Robotics. He has also facilitated many independent study courses ranging from Virology to Astrophysics.

Spicer has worked to expand his students’ opportunities by developing a partnership between the Academy and Robert Morris University, beginning this year, in which Academy juniors and seniors can enroll in introductory engineering courses at RMU at a discounted rate.

Spicer’s participation in science education at Sewickley Academy extends to extracurriculars as well. He helped organize a FIRST Robotics team in 2009 that now includes both Middle and Senior school teams. As a trained audio engineer, he has spent many years improving sound production and teaching students technical applied physics while they prepare for multiple theatrical and orchestral performances annually at the Academy.

Additionally, Spicer sponsors the Academy’s Science Club and coaches the Science Bowl team. He also supported students in creating a Science Buddies program in which the Science Club members showcase interactive demonstrations for students in grades three through five. Spicer is a volunteer with the Carnegie Science Center, particularly in the Buhl Observatory, and at stargazing events through the Amateur Astronomers Association of Pittsburgh and area local libraries.

“Libraries, museums, and astronomy were my gateways into physics, and I hope that my support of those institutions provides as much inspiration to others as was given to me,” he said.

He also hosts star parties for the students of Sewickley Academy and their families.

In addition to his work with Sewickley Academy, Spicer is an adjunct instructor in the masters of science in science education program at Montana State University-Bozeman, the organization that nominated him for the award. He is a graduate of PennWest California University, where he simultaneously earned three bachelors degrees in mathematics, physics, and secondary education and teaching while maintaining a 4.0 GPA. He has a master of arts degree in physics education from the University of Virginia and a master of science degree in science education from Montana State University-Bozeman.

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