Rosati-Kain High School science faculty member Lauren Lester was honored at The Ritz-Carlton in Clayton on Sunday, Nov. 11, 2012 as one of the 2012 Emerson Excellence in Teaching Award recipients.

Lester is among 93 teachers from within the St. Louis metropolitan area recognized for outstanding educational excellence. She received a Tiffany crystal apple during the ceremony to commemorate her award.

Lester teaches freshmen integrated chemistry and physics as well as physics and ACC physics for seniors. She has taught at R-K for the past six years.

She attended the University of Missouri-Columbia and earned a B.S. in Mathematics and a B.S. in Physics. Lester also earned a M.S. in Physics from the University of Missouri-St. Louis.

“I love science, and I think it’s really amazing to see how the world works and how everything connects. That is the way I approach teaching – to help students discover this,” Lester said.

Lester also noted she enjoys teaching at R-K.

“I love the atmosphere here. Our girls are really enthusiastic. They want to learn for the sake of learning and that makes teaching really fun. They have a natural curiosity and want to learn more,” Lester said.

As a recipient, Lester will also have the opportunity to apply for a Gold Star Grant from Emerson. The grants, presented in 2013, assist funding for education projects involving technology, innovation and leadership.

Principal Judy Mohan, who nominated Lester for the award, emphasized her commitment to the school.

“Lauren’s dedication to educating our students is demonstrated by her enthusiasm in the classroom each day. Lauren always strives to improve and learn new teaching methods to benefits out students. This honor is well deserved, and we congratulate Lauren on her success,” Mohan said.

Lester is also the recipient of the Loeb Prize, established in 1995 by Carol B. and Jerome T. Loeb in partnership with the St. Louis Science Center. The award recognizes math and science teachers who significantly enhance student performance.