Tesla STEM computer science teacher selected as a University of Chicago award winner 

Students accepted into the University of Chicago Class of 2028 were asked to nominate an educator whose guidance has helped them along the path toward intellectual growth. Responses were received from hundreds of students in recognition of educators who have positively impacted their lives. In October, it was announced that Tesla STEM High School computer science teacher Bethany Kankelborg was selected as a 2024 University of Chicago Outstanding Educator.

According to an email sent to Tesla STEM, Kankelborg stood out among a field of incredible, capable and inspiring educators. She was invited to join the University of Chicago for a virtual event celebrating this year’s winners on Tuesday, October 29. Kankelborg was chosen by Anusha Pandey, a former student of hers who was recently accepted to the University of Chicago. Below are a couple of excerpts from Pandey during the nomination process:

“I know I've already told you multiple times, but I'll be forever grateful for the day you added an extra chair in your Data Structures class and pulled me into it. It meant a lot to me that you believed in me and saw my potential, even when I didn't.” 

“It's really inspiring that you stayed back every Friday for Girls Who Code, and took the time to support and encourage all the girls in it. I know that without your focus on bringing girls into CS, many of us wouldn't have felt confident and would have likely abandoned CS. Thank you for advising us and helping make such a special space in STEM.”