Recognizing Excellence in Teaching, Andrew McCullough Awarded the Education for Common Good Award 2023
Each year, the department presents a local educator with the Education for the Common Good Award to honor their dedication to teaching, learning, and the broader community of educational professionals. Awardees are chosen because their ongoing work represents three core values of the Education Department:
- Be aware of the big picture
- Embrace theory and practice
- Live in and model a spirit of inquiry
This year, the Department selected Brunswick High School science teacher and science department head Andrew McCullough. Andrew graduated first from Brunswick High School, and then from Connecticut College where he majored in biology and minored in theater, and from the University of Southern Maine where he received his master’s degree.
McCullough was presented the award by Associate Professor of Education Alison Riley Miller on November 9 during the Brodie Family Reception & Dinner.
Miller explained that McCullough epitomizes the principle of embracing theory and practice in his educational approach. She described how he passionately engages his students in immersive, real-world learning experiences. For years, he has led students into the field to participate in community science projects centered around understanding invasive green crabs and at Wharton Point on Maquoit Bay, where students engage in seeding baby clams. According to Miller, these activities underscore his commitment to fostering practical learning while also educating his students on ecological awareness.
Miller added that McCullough recognizes the importance of the 'big picture' by extending his impact past the classroom and field trips. He actively participates in mentoring aspiring educators, sharing his wealth of knowledge and experience. From guiding students in teaching pathway courses to collaborating with the Bowdoin Teacher Scholars program, Andrew plays a pivotal role in shaping the future of education more generally.
Miller said McCullough also embodies a relentless spirit of inquiry, encouraging curiosity and empathy among his students and colleagues alike. Miller highlighted his class trips to Wharton Point and Maquoit Bay as a perfect example of his dedication. Through his passion for the experiences on the trips, his students are exposed to new ideas and are encouraged to challenge themselves and be inquisitive about the world around them. The students get to engage in experiential learning, which fosters a greater curiosity of the earth and its various biological and ecological systems.
The Education for the Common Good Award honors an educator who has created positive change and dedicated themselves to the community. The Education Department is thrilled to honor McCullough for his work educating students and mentoring teachers at Brunswick High School.